How to grow bee balm in a raised bed

Bee balm (bergamot or Monarda) is a spectacular, shaggy-flowered perennial that lives up to its name — bees, butterflies and beneficial insects flock to it. The aromatic leaves and flowers make a fragrant tea, too.

Quick facts

• Position: full sun to part shade
• Spacing: 40–50 cm apart
• Tub depth: our 23 cm+ depth
• Time to harvest: from year 1, seasonally

When to plant: Plant in spring or autumn. It's a hardy perennial that returns each year and spreads into a clump. Our free planting calendar shows the right months for your postcode.

Growing it in a raised bed: Plant into rich, moist mix with good airflow — bee balm is prone to powdery mildew in crowded, still spots, so give it room. Divide clumps every few years to keep them vigorous.

How to use it: The leaves and flowers make an aromatic, minty-citrus tea, and the petals brighten salads. It's one of the finest plants going for filling your garden with bees and butterflies.

Common pests: keep an eye out for aphids, though flowers are seldom much bothered. See our safe pest guide.

Common problems: the main one to watch is powdery mildew, usually in damp, crowded conditions. Good airflow prevents most.

Where to plant it: Plant it in a pollinator patch with room to breathe; a top plant for bees and butterflies. See our companion planting guide.

More growing guides: anise hyssop, borage and lavender.

Plan your patch: our free planting calendar shows what to plant now where you live. Ready to grow? Browse our raised garden beds or build your own with the garden bed builder.

Image: Tfbybyhf, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons.