Bee Balm

What it is. Bee balm (Monarda didyma) is a perennial in the mint family with square stems and fragrant, minty leaves. It forms clumps and typically grows 36 to 60 inches (91 to 152 cm) tall.

Flowers and wildlife. It bears scarlet-red tubular flowers in dense clusters through summer. The flowers attract bees, butterflies and hummingbirds. The plant is resistant to damage by deer and rabbits.

Edible parts. Its flowers are edible.

Sowing and planting. The usable sources here do not give a sowing depth, germination time or indoor start date for this species, so this page does not give one. Propagate by seed or division in spring. Seed is one option, but the sources describe division in more detail. Early spring is the best time to dig and divide bee balm.

Site and spacing. Plant in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or light shade. Space plants 2 feet (61 cm) apart.

Watering. Keep the soil evenly moist during the growing season. During dry periods, water every 7 to 10 days and soak the soil to a depth of 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm). Mulch around the plants to hold moisture.

Feeding. Scatter a small amount of all-purpose fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, around each plant in early spring. Heavy feeding encourages soft, rapid growth that can make mildew worse.

Deadheading and cutting back. Remove spent flower heads to extend bloom and keep the plant tidy. One source says to cut stems down to the ground in autumn. Another says native bees nest in dead hollow stems, so cut dead stems back only to 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 cm) and leave them standing until they break down.

Spreading. Plants spread quickly by underground stolons. The centers of clumps often die out within a few years, so dig and divide them every 2 to 3 years.

Powdery mildew. This fungal disease is the most common problem. It shows as a grayish white powder on the upper leaf surfaces, and badly infected leaves drop early. Plants are susceptible to powdery mildew and rust, so avoid overhead watering. Overcrowded plants, heavy shade and drought stress make mildew worse. Remove and destroy infected plant debris in fall.

Mildew-resistant choices. Cultivars with good mildew resistance include Marshall’s Delight, Gardenview Scarlet, Violet Queen, Raspberry Wine and Colrain Red. Other powdery mildew resistant monardas are also listed by one guide.

Slugs. The plant may be susceptible to slugs.