Preventing Rot in Your Bee Balm Plant:
Causes and Solutions

Bee balm, also known as Monarda, is a beautiful flowering plant that attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds to your garden. However, if you notice your bee balm plant starting to wilt or turn brown, it may be suffering from rot. Rot can be caused by a variety of factors, but luckily there are several solutions to prevent it from spreading and killing your plant.

Causes of Rot in Bee Balm Plants

Overwatering

Overwatering is the most common cause of rot in bee balm plants. Bee balm plants prefer well-draining soil and do not like to sit in water for extended periods of time. When the soil around the roots becomes overly saturated, the roots can start to rot and the plant will wilt.

Fungal Infections

Fungal infections can also cause rot in bee balm plants. This is especially true if the plant is growing in humid conditions or if the leaves are frequently wet. Fungal infections can cause brown or black spots on the leaves and stems, and can quickly spread throughout the plant if left untreated.

Insects and Pests

Insects and pests, such as aphids or spider mites, can also cause rot in bee balm plants. These insects can damage the leaves and stems of the plant, making it more susceptible to other diseases and infections.

Solutions to Prevent Rot in Bee Balm Plants

Proper Watering

To prevent overwatering, make sure your bee balm plant is growing in well-draining soil. If you have heavy clay soil, consider adding sand or perlite to improve drainage. Water only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, and avoid getting water on the leaves and stems of the plant.

Fungal Infection Prevention

To prevent fungal infections, make sure your bee balm plant has good air circulation around it. Plant it in an open area where there is plenty of sun and wind. If you notice signs of a fungal infection, remove infected leaves and stems immediately and dispose of them in a sealed plastic bag.

Insect and Pest Control

To prevent insect and pest damage, inspect your bee balm plant regularly for any signs of infestation. If you notice aphids or spider mites on your plant, use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them. You can also attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs or lacewings, to your garden to naturally control pest populations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my bee balm plant has rot?

If your bee balm plant is wilting or turning brown, it may be suffering from rot. Check the soil around the roots for excessive moisture or a foul odor.

Can I save my bee balm plant once it has rot?

If caught early enough, you may be able to save your bee balm plant by removing infected leaves and stems and improving its growing conditions. However, if the rot has spread too far or if the roots are completely rotted, it may be best to remove the plant entirely.

How often should I water my bee balm plant?

Water your bee balm plant only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues.

Can I grow bee balm in containers?

Yes! Bee balm can be grown successfully in containers as long as they have good drainage holes at the bottom. Make sure to use a high-quality potting mix that provides good drainage.

What other plants pair well with bee balm?

Bee balm pairs well with other pollinator-friendly plants such as coneflowers, black-eyed susans, and liatris. It also looks great next to ornamental grasses like switchgrass or little bluestem.