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 should I plant bee balm?

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

• Subtropical (Brisbane & SEQ): March to April and September to October
• Temperate (Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth): September to November
• Cool & mountain (Tasmania, Canberra, highlands): October to November
• Tropical (Cairns, Darwin): Not really suited to this zone
• Arid inland: September to October

How do I grow bee balm 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 do I 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.

What pests attack bee balm?

Keep an eye out for aphids, though flowers are seldom much bothered. See our safe pest guide.

What are the common problems with bee balm?

The main one to watch is powdery mildew, usually in damp, crowded conditions. Good airflow prevents most.

Where should I 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 garden 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.