Marshal's Delight Monarda Plant

Marshal's Delight Bee Balm Plant was chosen by the Chicago Botanical Gardens as being one of the best plants to grow in the Midwest, though its tolerance to salt holds it in good stead in coastal locations. Bearing tons of vividly colored, rosy-pink, frilled blossoms, the hummingbirds, butterflies and honey bees will follow the fragrance right to your garden. Unlike some Bee Balm, Marshal's Delight does not suffer from powdery mildew, leaving you plenty of minty, flavorful leaves with which to decorate salads, steep for tea or use to take the sting out of insect bites, including bees. Monarda does best in moist soils.

Our Monarda (Bee Balm) Plants are grown with care and free from harmful pesticides, ensuring they are a safe and vibrant addition to your garden. Guaranteed to arrive healthy and ready to thrive!

Planting Instructions:

• - Best planted in spring or fall for optimal root establishment
• - Space plants 18-24 inches apart to allow for mature growth and air circulation

Soil Preparation:

• - Ideal soil pH: 6.0-7.0
• - Prefers moist, well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter

Watering Specifics:

• - Water thoroughly when first planted, keeping soil consistently moist
• - Once established, water regularly to maintain moisture, especially during dry spells

Fertilizer Type:

• - Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth and blooming
• - Avoid over-fertilizing, as too much can lead to excessive foliage and fewer blooms

Pruning and Training:

• - Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming
• - Cut back stems to ground level in late fall or early spring to promote fresh growth

Additional Pest Management:

• - Monarda is generally pest-resistant but may be susceptible to powdery mildew; ensure good air circulation to prevent this
• - Monitor for aphids and treat if necessary

Blooming Indicators:

• - Blooms from early summer through late summer with vibrant, tubular flowers in shades of red, pink, purple, or white

Temperature Tolerance:

• - Hardy in USDA zones 4-9, tolerates heat and cold but may need extra water in dry climates

Companion Plants for Monarda:

• - Echinacea: Complements Monarda with its bright, daisy-like blooms
• - Salvia: Adds vertical spikes of blue or purple that pair well with Monarda’s tubular flowers
• - Coreopsis: Offers a continuous display of yellow blooms that contrast beautifully with Monarda’s colors
• - Achillea: Complements Monarda with its clusters of long-lasting flowers
• - Rudbeckia: Adds bold yellow flowers that enhance the color display of Monarda