Perennials

Bee Free Bergamot

Monarda

Monarda 'Bee Free': 50 cm high and 40 cm spread, sun to partial shade. Violet flowers in July-September. Zone 4; choose soil compatible with its moisture needs.

Format

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Exposure
Sun to partial shade
Life cycle
Hardy perennial
Hardiness
Zone 4

Discover the plant

Common nameBee Free Bergamot
FamilyLamiaceae
GenusMonarda
CultivarBee Free
TypeHardy perennial
Botanical nameMonarda

For a sun to partial shade composition, Monarda 'Bee Free' offers flowers in shades of purple. Its distinctive details include aromatic foliage. The foliage has shades of green, to be highlighted among different textures. The usual flowering period is July-September. Its size of 50 cm by 40 cm reserves a place for it in the middle of flowerbeds and group plantings, without forgetting the space of its neighbors.

In terms of cultivation, Monarda 'Bee Free' appreciates a sun to partial shade exposure; the recommended soil is humus-rich, retaining its freshness during growth, without stagnant water around the collar. For Monarda 'Bee Free', regularly check the soil around the root ball: it must retain its freshness. Water at the base when the surface begins to dry and adjust the watering according to rainfall; this exposure (sun to partial shade) does not eliminate water needs. The spacing of approximately 40 cm between centers is a starting point, to be adjusted according to observed vigor. The indicated hardiness level is zone 4, to be assessed according to the conditions of your garden.

The maintenance of Monarda 'Bee Free' is mainly based on observing the clump: water at the base and limit the expansion of rhizomes when they encroach on neighboring plants. Monarda benefits from fresh soil and good air circulation; overly dense clumps favor foliage problems. For companion planting, consider perennial geraniums, campanulas, daylilies in varieties with similar needs. Keep its 50 cm height in mind to place lower plants on the right side and to keep the flowers visible during July-September.

Monarde ‘Bee Free’ — Monarda

Planting guide

From planting to establishment.

Spacing / density 15.75 in
Best planting time Spring after the thaw or early autumn, allowing time for the roots to establish before the severe cold weather.
Propagation Division or separation of offsets by group, preferably when not flowering. Seedlings do not necessarily reproduce the characteristics of a named cultivar.
Growing method
Monarda ‘Bee Free’: In spring after the thaw or in early autumn, allowing time for the roots to establish before the severe cold. For Monarda ‘Bee Free’, regularly check the soil around the root ball: it must remain moist. Water at the base when the surface begins to dry out and adjust the watering according to rainfall; this exposure (sun to partial shade) does not eliminate water needs. Monarda thrives in cool soil and good air circulation; overly dense clumps encourage foliage problems.

Soil and care

The right care,at the right time.

Soil pH

Acid to neutral to alkaline; general indication of the botanical group

Care level

Regular maintenance

Watering

For Bee Balm ‘Bee Free’, regularly check the soil around the root ball: it should remain moist. Water the base when the surface starts to dry out and adjust the amount according to rainfall; this exposure (sun to partial shade) does not eliminate the need for water.

Soil type

Humiferous, retaining its freshness during growth, without stagnant water around the collar

Fertilization

Fertilizer for flowering

Moisture

Regular freshness during growth

Seasonal care

Monarda ‘Bee Free’: water at the base and limit rhizome expansion when they encroach on neighboring plants. During its flowering period (July-September), also monitor damaged stems and nearby plants that may obscure the clump.

Container growing

A garden,within reach.

Recommended pot size

Stable, perforated container, significantly wider than the root ball; dimensions to be adapted to the sold format and adult development.
To try Monarda 'Bee Free' in a container, choose a stable pot with drainage holes, suitable for the root ball and its future size (40 cm). The substrate should remain fresh; it will dry out faster than in the ground. Plan to protect the container in winter depending on your climate.
Monarde ‘Bee Free’ — Monarda

Bloom and dimensions

Its place,in your garden.

Mature height

18 inches (45.5 cm)

Width / spread

16 inches (40.5 cm)

Flower color

Pink

Foliage color

Green

Foliage type

Deciduous in cold climates

Growth rate

Fast

Growth habit

Erected

Fragrance

Aromatic foliage

Bloom period

July-September
Monarde ‘Bee Free’ — Monarda

Garden associations

In goodcompany.

Companion plants

Recommended companion plants for Monarda 'Bee Free': hardy geraniums, campanulas, daylilies. Choose varieties that tolerate sun to partial shade and similar moisture levels; ensure each clump has enough space to grow to its mature size.

Plants to avoid

Around Monarda 'Bee Free', above all avoid neighboring plants that would cover its leaves or strongly compete with its root ball. Compatibility of light, water, and size takes precedence over a list of so-called enemy plants.

Frequently asked questions

Your questions,answered.

Where to plant Monarda 'Bee Free'?
Expect sun to partial shade and a suitable soil (humus-rich, retaining moisture during growth, with no standing water around the collar). Monarda thrives in cool soil and good air circulation; overly dense clumps encourage foliage problems.
What space should I reserve for Bee Free Beebalm?
Expect it to reach about 50 cm in height and 40 cm in width at maturity. Allow about 40 cm between centers, adjusting based on the actual growth of the clump. This size is suitable for use in the middle of a flower bed and for group plantings.
When does Monarda 'Bee Free' bloom?
The indicated period is July-September. The flower palette is purple. The exact date and duration depend on the climate, the season, and the plant's establishment.
How to water and care for Monarda 'Bee Free'?
For 'Bee Free' Monarda, regularly check the soil around the root ball: it should remain fresh. Water at the base when the surface starts to dry, and adjust watering based on rainfall; this exposure (sun to partial shade) does not eliminate the need for water. Water at the base and limit the expansion of rhizomes when they encroach on neighboring plants.
Can Monarda ‘Bee Free’ be grown in a pot?
To try Monarda 'Bee Free' in a container, choose a stable pot with drainage holes, suitable for the root ball and its future size (40 cm). The substrate must remain moist; it will dry out faster than in the ground. Plan to protect the container in winter depending on your climate.

Wildlife and pets

Life,around your plants.