Wild Bergamont, Native Bee balm

Monarda fistulosa

Wild Bergamont is a North American native and beloved by so many diverse pollinators. It is truly a joy to witness the buzz of activity abounding the blossoms during its season-long blooming. The attention Bee Balm receives in the garden has indicated how critical this native plant is as food and medicine to our winged friends. Bee Balm has shown us that a helpful way to rebuild the loss of habitat, food and medicine supply is to restore meadows of this native plant wherever we can. We cannot wait until the days when mowed lawns are seen as stuffy and old-fashioned and “lawns” full of wild flowers are not seen as unusual or novel!

Edible leaves and flowers also offer food and medicine to us people as well! Aromatic and warming, much like oregano and is indeed a member of the vast mint family. We love to dry down the leaves for a spicy and invigorating midwinter brew. Fresh flowers make beautiful adornments to dishes. A must have to include in your Native Plant Garden and a heartfelt offering to the wild winged species around us.

Sowing and Growing Information:

No cold stratification required.

10-20 days to germinate at 60-70 degrees F.

Sow in trays 8 weeks before last frost in your area.

Transplant out after last frost.

18”-24” spacing. Transplant with a little compost and woodash to feed your growing plants through the season. Supplement as needed with compost/nitrogen tea once young plants are well established (two weeks after transplant).

Harvest:

Pick at height of flowering 6 inches about the root. Make fresh herb tincture or dry and store whole plant for multiple uses. Store in airtight containers in a dark, cool and dry location for invigorating tea all year long!