What To Do With Monarda Once It Is Through Blooming

Question

I don’t have much luck keeping them around the following years. Do I deadhead after the blooms or let them go. I would like to see them to grow more every year.

Answer 1

While they are blooming, you can deadhead to encourage more blooms. Once they are finished blooming in late summer or early fall, cut them to the ground, especially if they had powdery mildew. This will encourage new, healthy shoots.

They should be hardy in your zone 5. They do best in full sun, but will tolerate part shade. The native monarda can tolerate drier, poorer soils, but the new cultivars need more water and nutrients. Here is more on their care:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/bee-balm/bee-balm-care.htm