Cultivation of Bergamot / Bee Balm

Site: Bergamot grows well in almost any soil, bergamots prefer a slightly moist spot with full sun. Add mulch in spring; bergamot likes it rich, light and moist.

Propagation: Divide or take root cutting in spring, stem cuttings in summer. Sow seed in spring.

Growing: Thin or transplant to 18 inches apart as these plants are vigorous spreaders. Plant where air circulation is good, because mildew can be a problem. Divide every 3 years discarding dead center. Bergamot is not suitable for growing indoors.

Harvesting: With a long season of bloom, bee balm is used in wild gardens and in beds and borders. The flowers are beloved by hummingbirds and butterflies.
Collect leaves in spring or in summer when flowers form. Pick flowers when open.

Culinary Uses: With a long season of bloom, bee balm is used in wild gardens and in beds and borders. The flowers are beloved by hummingbirds and butterflies. Flowers may be scattered in salads. The leaves may be infused or simmered in water for 10 minutes in an enamel saucepan for flavor as a tea. Put fresh leaf into China tea for an Earl Grey flavor or wine cups or lemonade.