Monarda
Overview:
Monarda always takes me back to my childhood, where we had large patches of the perennial. In Michigan, I always associated them with the 4th of July because that’s when they bloomed there. Here in Arizona, I like to grow the annual version that goes by ‘Lambada’ or ‘Lemon mint’. These blooms are tall and appear to be stacked. This wild-flower is the perfect addition to any Mother’s Day bouquet.
Starting seeds:
Sow seeds in cell packs and lightly cover seeds with soil. I usually over-sow the seedlings, putting 3-5 seeds per cell. I do not thin out seedlings for this flower. Surface sow the seeds, and sprinkle a fine layer of vermiculite atop. Check out my seed starting guide for more tips and tricks for indoor seed starting. Start seeds indoors in Auguest-October.
When to plant outdoors:
October-December
Spacing:
9-12” apart
Height:
36”
Sun:
Full sun 6+ hours
Flower Support:
no, yes in high wind or overhead watering conditions.
low
Typical bloom time:
May-June
Succession plant?
No
Seed Sourcing:
Johnny’s seeds and Geo seeds are my go-to’s.
Pairing plants:
Scabiosa, feverfew, and Yarrow.
Favorite varieties:
Annual Monarda / Bee balm
Monarda mixed into a seasonal flower bouquet. Paired with Sunflowers, snapdragons, scabiosa, and feverfew
Monarda in a flower garden along the fence
This monarda was grown in a container. They prefer to be in the ground, but if you want to grow it in a container make sure to use a support netting like a peony cage.
