Monarda – Pardon My Lavender’

Attracts: Bees, Butterflies, Hummingbirds

Resists: Rabbits

Fragrant Foliage

Fun Facts Growing bee balm near tomatoes in the garden is said to improve the health and flavor of the tomatoes. Monarda is the natural source of the antiseptic Thymol, the primary active ingredient in some kinds of mouthwash. Monarda didyma has a long history of being used by some tribes of Native Americans as a medicinal plant to cure skin infections, minor wounds and even excessive cases of gas.

Native to North America

Maintenance Notes
Prefers rich, moist soil and full sun but also grows well in ordinary garden soil and part shade. This hardy selection is mildew resistant.

Uses Notes Best used in landscapes

Maintenance Category Easy

Water Category Average

Bloom Time

Flower Form Landscape

Soil Fertility Fertile Soil

Soil PH Category Alkaline Soil, Neutral Soil

pH B - pH 5.8 - 6.2

Fertilization 100 - 200

Light Requirements High

Water Requirements Moderate to Moist

Rooting Out Temperature 65 - 72° Fahrenheit

Growing On Temperature 65 - 72° Fahrenheit

Holding Temperature 65 - 72° Fahrenheit

Planting and Timing Information

Plant Late Summer, Early Fall or Spring for Summer Finish. Standard PPP.

Pinching and Growth Regulators

Pinch two weeks after transplanting to promote branching. These are compact plants and should not need growth regulation for height control. However, a tank mix of B-9 at 2500 ppm plus Sumagic at 3 ppm is effective, if toning is necessary.

Pest and Disease Management

General pest and disease practices as listed in notes. Aphids, Spider Mites and Powdery Mildew can be problematic, treat as necessary.

Grower Tips

-Finishing Time of 9-12 weeks is after the onset of Long Day conditions.

-Vernalized plants grow more vigorously and flower more uniformly and rapidly than plants with no exposure to cold.