Monarda didyma
Monarda didyma
Common names: Indianernessel, Goldmelisse, Scharlach-Monarde, Bienenbalsam
Photo: Joe Schneid, Louisville, Kentucky · CC BY 3.0 · Source
This description was machine-translated.
Description
Monarda didyma, commonly known as Indian sage, goldmallow, scarlet monarda, or bee balm, produces striking, crown‑shaped flower heads in scarlet, pink, or violet from July to September. The aromatic foliage smells of bergamot and mint and has been traditionally brewed into tea. The plant reaches about 80 to 120 cm tall and adds vivid color to summer perennial beds.
Care instructions
Plant in nutrient‑rich, evenly moist soil in full sun or light partial shade. Water generously during dry periods, as the plant is prone to powdery mildew under drought stress. Provide good air circulation and divide the clump every two to three years to prevent mildew. Deadhead after flowering; harvest young leaves and flowers in midsummer for tea. In spring, remove the previous year’s foliage close to the ground.
Soil & site
Soil pH
Soil type
humus-rich, well-drained, moist, nutrient-rich, loamy
Feeding
Medium feeder
Companion planting
Good neighbors
nightshade family (Solanaceae)
particularly well establishedYou will find that basil next to tomato and pepper improves taste and keeps whiteflies and aphids away.
For example PotatoTomatoSweet pepperCocktail tomatoEggplantCape gooseberry and 9 more species in the catalogue
Source: classic companion planting (DACH-Gartenpraxis)
cabbage family (Brassicaceae)
You will notice that the intense scent of basil, thyme, and others confuses the cabbage whitefly and keeps it away from the cabbage family.
For example White cabbageKohlrabiRadishKalebroccolicauliflower and 34 more species in the catalogue
Source: bio-gardening intercropping practice
Companion planting is partly traditional gardening lore. Where the reason is known, it is given.
Some of these explanations were machine-translated.
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