You might not know what monarda is, but you've definitely heard of bergamot or bee balm.
This amazing plant can be not just beneficial, but also beautiful – no wonder some gardeners want to grow it!
Here are a few tips on how you can grow healthy and beautiful monarda in your own garden.
Location
Choose a sunny spot in your garden where the monarda plant can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
Soil Preparation
Prepare the soil by removing any weeds or rocks.
Loosen the soil using a garden fork or tiller to help with drainage.
Planting
Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball of the monarda plant.
Place the plant in the hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the ground.
Fill the hole with soil and gently pat it down around the plant.
Watering
Water the monarda plant thoroughly after planting to help it establish its roots.
Keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged, throughout the growing season.
Aim to water deeply once a week, especially during dry periods.
Mulching
Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or straw, around the base of the plant.
Mulching helps retain moisture in the soil, suppresses weed growth, and regulates soil temperature.
Pruning
After the monarda plant finishes flowering, you can prune it back by cutting down the stems to about half their height.
This will encourage new growth and prevent the plant from becoming too leggy.
Pests and Diseases
Keep an eye out for common pests like aphids or powdery mildew.
If you notice any issues, you can try using organic pest control methods or consult with a local gardening expert.
Propagation
If desired, you can propagate monarda by dividing the plant in early spring or fall.
Dig up the plant and carefully separate the root clumps, then replant them in new locations.
Previously, we talked about violets.
