Wild Bergamot Seeds - Bee Balm

Grow Wild Bergamot (Monarda Fistulosa) Seeds for an attractive and useful perennial herb. Also called Mint Leaf Bee Balm, it has an upright growth and lovely lavender flowers with aromatic foliage. Its sweet nectar is a favorite of butterflies, bees and hummingbirds. Wild Bergamot is native to eastern North America and the plains, and it is easy to grow from flower seeds and it multiplies quickly.

Perennial herb Monarda attracts hummingbirds and bees with its beautiful flowers. Its crushed leaves release fragrant oils that act as a natural mosquito repellent. Consider this easy-to-grow plant instead of chemical sprays.

Medicinal benefits

Use Monarda Fistulosa to treat colds, fever, stomach pains, acne, and headaches by making tea, cooking, or eating raw.

Sowing: Start Wild Bergamot seeds in early spring by occasionally watering until germination occurs in 10-20 days at 60-70°F. Consider thinning or transplanting seedlings for wider spacing. For a head start, plant seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost and then transplant them outdoors.

Growing: Ensure proper moisture levels for young plants and provide well-drained soil for mature plants. Avoid overwatering and overcrowding, as this can cause fungal problems. This plant can also reproduce and spread through rhizomes. Its blooms are highly appealing to hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. For increased blooming, regularly deadhead. Every 2-3 years, dividing the plants may be necessary.

Harvesting: Select and trim fresh blooms for cut flowers, removing any submerged foliage and placing them promptly in water.