Bee balm is an easy care perennial flower that is fragrant from root to bloom. The plant attracts hummingbirds, butterflies and bees with it’s spiced orange fragrance and large, colorful blooms that last all summer.
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There are two requirements for growing bee balm – a sunny location and plenty of moisture. Bee balm is a native plant that grows in woodland areas near water sources, replicate the plant’s natural habitat when choosing a planting location.
Bee balm is right at home in a low-lying landscape location where the soil stays moist long after the rains have ended, or when planted around a pond. Bee balm will thrive in a flower garden as long as it is watered regularly.
Bee balm seeds or plants can be planted from early spring through fall. Plant seeds directly into warm soil or start in containers prior to planting in the soil. Transplant seedlings into soil when the seedling reaches three inches in height. Plant bee balm 18 inches apart (seeds or plants) in tilled soil.
Bee balm reproduces rapidly via an underground root system and the 18 inch gap between plants will be filled in within a couple of growing seasons.
The plant will reach a mature height of about three feet and bear colorful flowers throughout the summer. The plant will remain green year around.
Because the plant reproduces rapidly, overcrowding is a factor and the plants will need to be thinned out every few years. The overcrowding tendency of the plants, combined with the moist soil conditions required for growth can cause leaf mold, the only disease this fragrant flower is susceptible too.
Plants can easily be thinned out by pulling up the small plants or removing larger plants by inserting a hand-held spade into the soil and slicing through the roots.
Bee balm in not drought tolerant and will need to be watered regularly to maintain soil moisture.
Bee balm comes in several bloom colors- red, purple, pink and white. All blooms colors attract hummingbirds, butterflies and bees. As the wildlife visits the nectar-rich flowers and disturbs the plants, the bee balm releases a fragrance that will fill the summertime air with the scent of spiced orange.
Bee balm is a hard working flower that will provide a multitude of benefits to a flower garden or landscape. The plant will provide easy care flowering beauty and fragrance, plus attract hummingbirds, butterflies and bees.
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