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Bee Balm – Lemon

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Lemon Bee Balm, also known as Lemon Mint, is a fragrant annual or short-lived perennial herb known for its whorls of lavender to pink flowers that bloom from early summer to fall. Thriving in full sun and well-drained soils, this drought-tolerant plant grows up to 2 feet tall and is a favorite of bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Its lemon-scented leaves can be used in teas, potpourris, or as a culinary herb. Lemon Bee Balm’s vibrant blooms and delightful fragrance make it a versatile and pollinator-friendly addition to herb gardens, wildflower meadows, or borders.

Variety Details

NAME: Bee Balm (Monarda citriodora)
VARIETY: Lemon
DAYS TO MATURITY: 65 – 75 days
POLLINATION: Open Pollinated
TYPE: Tender Perennial
HARDINESS ZONE: Zones 3 – 11
SUNLIGHT: Full Sun – Partial Shade
SOIL: Sandy, well-draining soils with a pH 6.7 – 7.3
PLANT HEIGHT: 2 – 3 feet
SPACING: 14 – 24 inches apart
TEMP: 32 – 90ºF

Planting Instructions

Bee Balm – Lemon

Stratification

Lemon Bee Balm seeds benefit from cold stratification to enhance germination rates. This process simulates natural winter conditions, preparing the seeds for growth.

Steps for Stratification:

  1. Mix Seeds with Moist Medium: Combine seeds with damp sand or a moist paper towel.
  2. Cold Treatment: Place the mixture in a sealed plastic bag and refrigerate for 4 weeks.
  3. Monitor Moisture: Ensure the medium remains moist but not waterlogged during this period.

To learn more about Stratification, click here!

Starting Seeds Indoors

  • Starting seeds indoors is recommended to give Lemon Bee Balm a head start, especially in regions with shorter growing seasons.
  • Begin 7-9 weeks before the last expected frost.
  • Sow seeds on the soil surface and press lightly; do not cover, as light aids germination.
  • Maintain a temperature of 68-72°F (20-22°C). Germination occurs in 10-14 days.
  • Once seedlings have several true leaves and the danger of frost has passed, transplant them outdoors.
  • Space plants 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) apart in full sun to partial shade with well-draining soil

Starting Seeds Outdoors

Direct sowing is suitable in areas with mild climates.

  • Sow seeds outdoors in early spring after the last frost or in fall for natural stratification.
  • Scatter seeds on the soil surface and press them in lightly; do not cover.
  • Once seedlings emerge, thin them to 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) apart.
  • Keep the soil consistently moist until germination, which typically occurs in 10-14 days.

Plant Care & Growing

  • Light: Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade.
  • Soil: Thrives in well-draining soils; adaptable to various soil types.
  • Water: Water regularly during establishment. Once mature, Lemon Bee Balm is drought-tolerant.
  • Fertilization: Generally not necessary; over-fertilization can lead to leggy growth.
  • Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming and prevent self-seeding.

Purchasing Info

  • All of our seeds can be purchased through our Etsy at Farmsteadseedsupply.etsy.com
  • Please follow the “Buy Now on Etsy” link above to purchase this variety of seed and more
  • If you have any questions, please reach out to us through the etsy chat feature and we will get back to you as soon as possible
  • Note About Seed Quantities: Seed quantities are estimated based on a conservative average weight per seed pack. We always strive to provide you with at least as many seeds as listed, however, actual seed quantities may vary.

Shipping Info

  • Free shipping on all orders
  • Orders are mailed 1-3 business days after payment processes
  • Shipping time subject to change due to inclement local weather/USPS delays
  • We do not ship outside the contiguous USA (Hawaii, Puerto Rico or Alaska)

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