Monarda Bergamot
Also known as Bee Balm or Bergamot, Monarda is a beautiful plant that will produce flowers in shades of red, purple, pink and many others in between throughout Summer. Monarda is also extra special as on warm evenings it exudes a wonderfully intoxicating scent, making this plant a garden must have. If you would like to grow Monarda from seed please view available seeds in the
seed selection.
How to grow
Monardas are becoming more popular as staple garden plants and once established they are tolerant of various conditions and will flower the whole summer long in to Autumn. The plants on offer have been expertly grown and are ready to be planted in the garden. When you receive your plants you should move them in to their final positions as soon as possible. If you cannot plant immediately, ensure your plants are watered and keep them moist and in a cool and bright space until planting is possible.
Position
A position in Sun is ideal for Monardas and they will thrive in the middle to back of the border. Flowers are produced on sturdy stems and are unlikely to require staking, although you may wish to support plants with
plant supports.
Soil
Monardas grow best in soils that are moist and humus rich. Ideally soil should be deeply dug and enriched with plenty of organic matter, well-rotted garden compost, manure or
multi-purpose compost will be fine. This will help to make soil rich and fertile whilst retaining adequate moisture. Unlike most plants Monardas do not take kindly to having a layer of mulch applied in Spring.
Care
Monardas are relatively care free as long as you ensure their site and soil conditions are correct. Water your new plants well after planting to ensure they establish well and maintain a regular
watering regime thereafter. Irrigation systems and other
watering solutions are available to help with this process. An application of
pelleted chicken manure in spring will help to promote strong plant growth and general fertiliser or
liquid seaweed fertiliser can be applied throughout the growing season.
Top tip
Resist cutting faded flower stems back in Autumn as the leftover flower stems add interest in the garden and a home for insects in Winter, making Monardas excellent plants for the
wildlife garden.