Help needed - Bee balm, Wild Bergamot, Monarda

Hi

Managed to grow some Bee Balm from seed a few of years ago. It was a very slow process and didn't plant out the ones that survived until the following year. Once in the ground they flourished and gave me a spectacle of blooms. Unfortunately, out of the four plants only one re-emerged the following year. They were all situated in virtually the same location. I've manage to germinate some more seeds this year and they are currently under shelter in a pvc greenhouse.

Any advice on how to maximise the crop from seed to bloom would be appreciated. Plus any tips on how to get them to survive winter. Wet and cold -7C where I live.

Thanks in advance.

 

Solitary Bee Balm Bloom. Got drowned out by some fast growing granny's bonnet. The plant crept along the floor looking for light rather than growing up. More buds showing but doubt it will look as dramatic as when it first flowered. Not much tea getting made this year. Found out they can handle the cold but not the wet as well so will have to cover or overwinter. The new seedlings germinated look like they will need be kept undercover overwinter until next year. So slow to establish.

Must be doing something wrong

 

Hi @dowtish I live in wet Wales, but monarda thrives here. So much, I've had to dig out loads. It seems to like a good soil, plenty of humus (and horse manure). Maybe keep your young plants in pots until they start clumping up? Mine was bought as a plant (it's called bubble gum I think) but it wasn't very big.

 

Cheers for the advice.

Your Bee Balm looks amazing