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.