How to Grow Bee Balm

A few years ago, bee balm was blooming like crazy beside an old shed we were getting ready to tear down. I didn’t want to lose them—or the pollinators they attract—so I decided to move it to a new spot closer to the house.

And good news: bee balm is super easy to transplant.

Since it can grow several feet tall, I cut the stems back to about 12 inches before moving it. That made it much easier to handle and replant without it flopping over. I prepped the soil along my fence with a mix of compost and bagged garden soil, then planted the bee balm in its new home. I had a few extra stalks left, so I added them to the perennial garden out front.

If you’re building a pollinator garden, bee balm (Monarda didyma) deserves a spot.

Bee balm doesn’t just look good—it has a long history of traditional use by Native Americans and Colonial settlers. It’s known for its natural antiseptic properties.

If you’re working in the garden and get a small cut or scratch, just break off a leaf, crush it, and rub the juice on your skin. You can also use the leaves and flowers to make a soothing herbal tea for sore throats, upset stomach, colds, or even a restless night.

Simple Bee Balm Tea Recipe:

• 1 tablespoon fresh bee balm leaves and flowers

• 6 oz boiling water

• Steep for 5 minutes, then strain

• Enjoy warm, maybe with a little honey

Bee Balm for Chickens?

Yep, it’s true. Bee balm, along with other herbs like thyme, mint, basil, sage, and lemon balm, can be added to your chicken nest boxes. The scent helps repel mites, lice, and other pests—plus it smells a lot better than the alternative!

Watch for Powdery Mildew

Bee balm is easy to grow, but it’s not totally problem-free. Powdery mildew is the most common issue. If you see that powdery white coating on the leaves, spray with a mix of equal parts milk and water once a week for two weeks. It helps clear it up and may prevent it from coming back.

Bee Balm Multiplies Fast—

But if it starts to take over, just dig some up and move it to a new spot in the yard, pot it up for friends, or donate some to a local plant swap. I’ve got my eye on a sunny corner next to our new shed for the next transplant.

If you don’t have bee balm in your garden yet, ask around—someone you know probably has more than enough to share. Or you can always start it from seed!

You may also like my post on Tips to Grow Yarrow.  A pretty white or pink lacy flower with fern-like leaves.

Happy Gardening,

Karen

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⚠️ Disclaimer:

This information is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. I am not a medical professional, and the use of herbs for health should always be approached with care. Please consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal teas, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have any medical conditions.