Plant Garden Bee Balm to repel ticks and beautify your yard

The Garden Bee Balm is a plant that catches the eye and, at the same time, repels ticks. For this reason, it is worth planting it in the garden to enjoy its appearance and considerable benefits from July until the end of September.

Nasturtiums, marigolds, calendulas, and matthiolas often beautifully grace our gardens. This year, adding another plant to the mix is worth adding - the garden bee balm, also known as monarda or bergamot. It is not only exceptional in color but also effective in repelling insects.

Burgundy, cream, pink, purple, and yellow – the garden bee balm comes in many colors, making it a stunning addition to any garden. Its pleasant scent matches its visual appeal, making it hard to pass by without noticing.

Bee balm is unique in emitting scents resembling lemon, strawberry, or even lavender. This fragrance comes from the plant's essential oils, which attract beneficial insects like butterflies and bees. Interestingly, it also repels pests, most notably ticks, keeping them away with its sweet aroma.

Bee balm thrives in warmth and sunlight, so its bloom lasts from July to September. When planting, choose a sunny or semi-shaded spot. It will still bloom if planted in full shade, but the flowers will be smaller. Opt for fertile, slightly moist soil to ensure the plant’s health.

Caring for bee balm involves regular watering and pruning. During hot weather, increase watering frequency, but avoid waterlogging the soil. The soil should remain slightly moist, not wet.

Prune the plant only after it has bloomed to stimulate new growth and another bloom. You can also fertilize bee balm with organic fertilizers. Since it is a frost-resistant plant, it is unnecessary to cover it during winter.