Bee balm is a beautiful and useful plant that can attract pollinators to your garden and add a pop of color to your landscape. However, not all plants are compatible with bee balm, and some can even harm or hinder its growth. Knowing what not to plant with bee balm is important to ensure the health and vitality of your garden.
One plant to avoid planting with bee balm is mint. While both plants are members of the mint family, they can compete for nutrients and space, leading to stunted growth and reduced yields for both plants. Additionally, mint can spread rapidly and take over your garden, making it difficult to control.
Another plant to avoid planting with bee balm is fennel. Fennel can attract beneficial insects, but it can also attract harmful pests that can damage your bee balm. Additionally, fennel can be a strong competitor for resources and can stunt the growth of your bee balm if planted too close together.
Table of Contents
Understanding Bee Balm
Bee balm, also known as monarda or bergamot, is a perennial herb that belongs to the mint family. There are several varieties of bee balm, but the most commonly grown are Monarda didyma (scarlet bee balm), Monarda fistulosa (wild bergamot), and Monarda citriodora (lemon bee balm). Bee balm is a popular choice for gardeners due to its attractive flowers and ability to attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Bee balm is a hardy plant that can grow up to 4 feet tall. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Bee balm is also drought-tolerant and can survive in a variety of soil types.
While bee balm is a beautiful and beneficial plant, there are certain plants that should not be planted alongside it. This is because some plants can compete with bee balm for resources or attract pests that can damage the plant.
One plant to avoid planting with bee balm is horsemint or Oswego tea (Monarda fistulosa). While horsemint is a close relative of bee balm, planting them together can lead to hybridization and the loss of the unique characteristics of both plants.
Another plant to avoid planting with bee balm is spotted bee balm (Monarda punctata). Spotted bee balm is a wildflower that is native to North America. However, it can attract pests such as spider mites and thrips, which can damage bee balm.
Eastern bee balm (Monarda bradburiana) is another plant that should not be planted with bee balm. This is because eastern bee balm can outcompete bee balm for resources such as water and nutrients.
In summary, while bee balm is a beautiful and beneficial plant, it is important to be mindful of what plants to avoid planting alongside it. By planting bee balm with compatible plants, gardeners can ensure that their bee balm thrives and continues to attract pollinators.
Bee Balm Cultivation
Bee balm, also known as Monarda, is a beautiful and fragrant perennial that attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds to the garden. It is easy to grow and care for, but there are certain plants that should not be planted near it. Here are some tips for cultivating bee balm:
Planting
Bee balm prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. It can be planted in the spring or fall, and seeds can be started indoors in the early spring. When planting, make sure to space the plants about 18-24 inches apart to allow for air circulation.
Watering
Bee balm prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought. Watering should be done deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture.
Soil
Bee balm prefers rich, neutral soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Compost can be added to the soil to improve its fertility.
Deadheading and Dividing
Deadheading bee balm after it blooms can encourage more blooms and prevent the plant from self-seeding. Dividing the plant every 3-4 years can also help keep it healthy and prevent overcrowding.
Companion Plants
Bee balm is a great companion plant for other perennials such as coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, and phlox. However, it should not be planted near plants in the mint family, as they can be invasive and overpower the bee balm.
Overall, bee balm is a beautiful and beneficial addition to any garden. By following these tips for cultivation, gardeners can enjoy its beauty and fragrance for years to come.
Bee Balm Colors and Varieties
Bee balm is a beautiful flowering plant that comes in a variety of colors and varieties. When it comes to planting bee balm, it is important to consider the colors and varieties that will complement each other. Here are some things to keep in mind when planting bee balm.
Colors
Bee balm comes in a range of colors, including white, pink, red, purple, and lavender. When planting bee balm, it is important to consider the colors of other plants in the area. White bee balm can be paired with other white or light-colored flowers, such as phlox or coneflowers. Pink bee balm can be paired with other pink or purple flowers, such as asters or salvia. Red bee balm can be paired with other red or orange flowers, such as daylilies or black-eyed susans.
Varieties
Bee balm also comes in a variety of varieties, including petite delight and gray varieties. Petite delight bee balm is a compact variety that is perfect for small gardens or containers. Gray bee balm has a unique gray-green foliage that adds interest to any garden.
When planting bee balm, it is important to consider the colors and varieties that will complement each other. By choosing the right colors and varieties, you can create a beautiful and harmonious garden that will attract bees and other pollinators.
Attracting Wildlife with Bee Balm
Bee balm is a beautiful and versatile plant that is known for attracting a variety of wildlife to the garden. It is a member of the mint family and is native to North America. Bee balm is also known as Monarda, Oswego tea, and bergamot.
Butterflies
Butterflies are attracted to bee balm because of its bright colors and sweet nectar. The flowers of bee balm are tubular in shape, which makes it easy for butterflies to access the nectar. Some of the species of butterflies that are commonly attracted to bee balm include:
- Eastern tiger swallowtail
- Black swallowtail
- Giant swallowtail
- Spicebush swallowtail
- Pearl crescent
- American lady
- Painted lady
- Red admiral
Bees
Bee balm is a great plant for attracting bees to the garden. Bees are essential pollinators and are responsible for pollinating many of the fruits and vegetables that we eat. Bee balm produces a lot of nectar, which makes it a valuable food source for bees. Some of the species of bees that are commonly attracted to bee balm include:
- Honeybees
- Bumblebees
- Carpenter bees
- Leafcutter bees
Hummingbirds
Hummingbirds are attracted to bee balm because of its bright colors and sweet nectar. The tubular shape of the flowers makes it easy for hummingbirds to access the nectar. Some of the species of hummingbirds that are commonly attracted to bee balm include:
- Ruby-throated hummingbird
- Black-chinned hummingbird
- Rufous hummingbird
Birds
Bee balm is also a great plant for attracting birds to the garden. The seeds of bee balm are a valuable food source for birds, especially in the winter months. Some of the species of birds that are commonly attracted to bee balm include:
- Goldfinch
- Chickadee
- Sparrow
- Cardinal
Pollinators
Bee balm is an excellent plant for attracting a variety of pollinators to the garden. Pollinators are essential for the reproduction of many plants, including fruits and vegetables. Bee balm produces a lot of nectar, which makes it a valuable food source for pollinators. Some of the species of pollinators that are commonly attracted to bee balm include:
- Butterflies
- Bees
- Hummingbirds
- Moths
- Beetles
Nectar
Bee balm produces a lot of nectar, which makes it a valuable food source for a variety of wildlife. The nectar of bee balm is sweet and fragrant, which makes it attractive to many different species of animals.
Native Plant
Bee balm is a native plant to North America and is an excellent addition to any garden. Native plants are important because they are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions. They also provide food and habitat for a variety of wildlife, including pollinators and birds. By planting native plants like bee balm, you can help support the local ecosystem.
Bee Balm in the Kitchen
Bee balm, also known as Monarda, is a beautiful and fragrant herb that can add a pop of color to any garden. While it’s commonly used for its medicinal properties, bee balm can also be used in the kitchen to add flavor to a variety of dishes.
Salads
Bee balm leaves can be used in salads to add a citrusy flavor. The leaves can be chopped up and added to a salad mix or used as a garnish. The bright colors of the bee balm flowers can also add a pop of color to any salad.
Teas
Bee balm can be used to make a delicious and refreshing tea. The leaves and flowers can be steeped in hot water for a few minutes to create a fragrant and flavorful tea. Bee balm tea is said to have a calming effect and can be enjoyed hot or cold.
When it comes to what not to plant with bee balm, it’s important to note that it can be invasive and may take over other plants in the garden. It’s best to plant bee balm in a separate area or in a container to prevent it from spreading.
Overall, bee balm can be a great addition to any kitchen garden. Its unique flavor and beautiful appearance make it a versatile herb to use in a variety of dishes.
Health Benefits of Bee Balm
Bee balm, also known as Monarda, is a plant that is known for its aromatic and medicinal properties. This plant is native to North America and has been used for centuries by Native Americans for its various health benefits.
Medicinal Benefits
Bee balm is known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties. It is commonly used to treat respiratory infections, such as bronchitis and sinusitis, due to its ability to reduce inflammation and fight off harmful bacteria. It is also used to treat digestive issues, such as bloating and gas, as well as menstrual cramps and headaches.
Bee balm contains thymol and carvacrol, which are both powerful antioxidants that help to protect the body against damage from free radicals. These antioxidants also help to reduce inflammation and support the immune system.
Aromatic Benefits
Bee balm has a strong, pleasant aroma that is often used in aromatherapy. The essential oil of bee balm is used to reduce stress and promote relaxation. It is also used to treat headaches and other types of pain.
Native American Uses
Native Americans used bee balm to treat a variety of ailments, including respiratory infections, digestive issues, and skin conditions. They also used it as a natural insect repellent and as a seasoning for food.
Overall, bee balm is a versatile plant that offers a variety of health benefits. Whether you use it for its medicinal properties, aromatic benefits, or as a natural insect repellent, bee balm is a valuable addition to any garden.
Common Problems with Bee Balm
Bee balm is a hardy, attractive plant that is easy to grow and care for. However, like all plants, it can be affected by a number of problems. Here are some of the most common problems that gardeners may encounter when growing bee balm.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects many plants, including bee balm. It appears as a white or grayish powder on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To prevent powdery mildew, gardeners should plant bee balm in a location with good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause damage to bee balm by sucking the sap from the leaves. Infested leaves may become yellow or brown and may fall off the plant. To prevent spider mites, gardeners should keep the plant well-watered and avoid over-fertilizing.
Stalk Borers
Stalk borers are the larvae of a moth that can cause damage to the stems of bee balm. Infested stems may wilt and die. To prevent stalk borers, gardeners should remove any infested stems and destroy them.
Thrips
Thrips are small, slender insects that can cause damage to bee balm by feeding on the leaves and flowers. Infested leaves may become distorted and discolored. To prevent thrips, gardeners should keep the plant well-watered and avoid over-fertilizing.
Invasive
Bee balm can be an invasive plant in some areas. It can spread quickly and outcompete native plants. Gardeners should be aware of the potential for bee balm to become invasive and take steps to control its spread if necessary.
Other Plants
Bee balm should not be planted near phlox or thyme, as they are susceptible to the same diseases and pests. Additionally, bee balm should not be planted near invasive plants, as they can compete with the bee balm for resources and space.
Overall, bee balm is a hardy and attractive plant that can add beauty and interest to any garden. By being aware of these common problems and taking steps to prevent them, gardeners can enjoy healthy, vibrant bee balm plants for years to come.
Harvesting and Using Bee Balm
Bee balm is a popular garden plant that produces beautiful summer flowers with tubular-shaped flower heads. It is also known for its fragrant leaves that can be used for tea and other culinary purposes. When harvesting bee balm, it is important to wait until the flowers are fully open and the dew has dried. This will ensure that the essential oils in the leaves and flowers are at their peak.
To harvest bee balm, simply cut the stems just above the leaves using a sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears. If you plan to use the leaves for tea or other culinary purposes, it is best to harvest them before the flowers have fully opened. This will ensure that the leaves have the highest concentration of essential oils.
Bee balm can also be used as a cut flower. To use bee balm in a floral arrangement, simply cut the stems just above the leaves and place them in a vase with fresh water. Bee balm will last for several days in a vase and will continue to release its fragrant aroma.
Bee balm is a rhizomatous plant, which means that it spreads by underground stems called rhizomes. This can make bee balm a bit of a challenge to control in the garden. To keep bee balm from spreading too much, it is best to plant it in a compact area or in a container.
Overall, bee balm is a beautiful and versatile plant that is well-suited for a variety of garden settings. Whether you are harvesting it for its fragrant leaves or using it as a cut flower, bee balm is sure to add beauty and interest to your garden. And with its ability to thrive in drought conditions, bee balm is also a great choice for gardeners who live in dry climates.
