Origin
Monarda fistulosa L. ssp. fistulosa var. rubra Gray, commonly known as wild bergamot, is a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae) and is native to North America, specifically in the eastern and central United States and Canada.
Common Names
Wild bergamot is known by several other common names including bee balm, horsemint, Oswego tea, and crimson beebalm.
Uses
This herbaceous perennial plant has a long history of medicinal use by Native Americans in treating ailments such as cold, fever, and stomach problems. It is also used as a source of essential oils and is a popular addition to herbal teas and potpourris. In addition, its flowers are an important source of food for pollinators, particularly bees and butterflies, making it a desirable plant for gardeners and conservationists alike.
General Appearance
Wild bergamot is a clump-forming plant that typically grows 2-4 feet tall with an equal spread. Its stems are square and hairy, and its leaves are lance-shaped and emanate a strong minty aroma when crushed. The plant blooms in mid to late summer, producing showy clusters of tubular-shaped flowers that are pink to lavender-red in color. The flowers are surrounded by leafy bracts that give them the appearance of shaggy balls. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
Light Requirements
Monarda fistulosa L. ssp. fistulosa var. rubra Gray prefers full sun to partial shade. It will grow in shade but won't form as many flowers. However, it does need a little shade during the hottest part of the day, especially in warmer climates.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is very adaptable and can grow in a wide range of temperatures. It is frost-tolerant and can withstand temperatures as low as -45°C (-49°F) in its native range. However, it prefers temperatures between 18-27°C (65-80°F). It will go dormant during extreme heat or drought conditions.
Soil Requirements
The plant will grow in a wide range of soil conditions but prefers soil that is well-draining and moderately fertile. It can grow in sandy, loamy, and clay soils and prefers a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It does not prefer wet soils and can tolerate drought conditions once established. The plant will benefit from regular watering during the growing season.
Cultivation methods
Monarda fistulosa L. ssp. fistulosa var. rubra Gray, or the wild Bergamot, is a herbaceous perennial that is relatively easy to grow. It prefers full sunlight but can also tolerate partial shade. Growing this plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter is best.
Sow the seeds in the fall or spring, about 3mm deep into the soil, and keep them moist until they germinate. Monarda fistulosa can be propagated through division too. Divide it every two to three years in early spring or late fall to maintain its vigor.
Watering needs
The plant requires moderate watering, which is roughly one inch of water per week. It is crucial to avoid overwatering, as the plant is susceptible to root rot. Always aim to keep the soil consistently moist, but not too wet.
Fertilization
Monarda fistulosa does not typically require heavy feeding as it prefers soils with adequate organic matter. Fertilize it once a year with a slow-release organic fertilizer in early spring for the best results.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary but can help control the plant’s height and improve its bushiness. Pinching the tips of the stem during the early growth stage promotes branching, resulting in a fuller plant. Deadheading spent blooms will encourage the plant to produce more flowers.
Propagation of Monarda fistulosa L. ssp. fistulosa var. rubra Gray
Monarda fistulosa L. ssp. fistulosa var. rubra Gray, also known as Wild Bergamot, is a North American native plant that produces attractive pink to lavender flowers. The plant is an excellent addition to gardens and landscapes, and it is also a favourite of pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
There are a few different methods of propagating Monarda fistulosa L. ssp. fistulosa var. rubra Gray, including:
Division
One of the easiest ways to propagate Monarda fistulosa L. ssp. fistulosa var. rubra Gray is by division. This method involves separating the plant into smaller sections, each with its own root system and stem. Ideally, you should divide the plant in early spring before the new growth appears.
To divide Monarda fistulosa L. ssp. fistulosa var. rubra Gray, dig up the entire plant and gently separate the root ball into smaller sections using a sharp knife or garden fork. Make sure each section has several stems and a good root system. Replant the divided sections immediately in a location with well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Seed Start
Monarda fistulosa L. ssp. fistulosa var. rubra Gray can also be propagated by seed. The best time to start seeds is in late winter or early spring indoors. The seeds are very small, so you should sow them on the soil surface and press them down gently to ensure good contact with the soil. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, and provide bright, indirect light. The seeds should germinate in 7 to 14 days.
Once the seedlings have two sets of true leaves, you can transplant them into individual pots or a well-prepared garden bed. Monarda fistulosa L. ssp. fistulosa var. rubra Gray prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Cuttings
Monarda fistulosa L. ssp. fistulosa var. rubra Gray can be propagated by taking stem cuttings. This method is best done in early summer when the plant is actively growing.
To take cuttings, select a healthy stem and cut a 6-inch section just below the leaf node. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with a well-draining growing medium and keep it moist. You can also cover the cutting with a plastic bag to create a mini greenhouse. Place the pot in a bright, indirect light location, but not in full sun. The cutting should root in 2 to 3 weeks.
Once the cutting has rooted, you can transplant it into individual pots or into a prepared garden bed with well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Overall, Monarda fistulosa L. ssp. fistulosa var. rubra Gray is a hardy and easy-to-grow plant that can be propagated by division, seed start, or cuttings. Choose the method that works best for you, and enjoy this beautiful plant in your garden or landscape.
Disease Management
Monarda fistulosa L. ssp. fistulosa var. rubra Gray is susceptible to various fungal and bacterial diseases. Managing diseases of this plant requires a comprehensive approach that focuses on prevention, early detection, and appropriate intervention. Here are some common diseases and ways to manage them:
1. Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, stems, and flowers of Monarda fistulosa. It appears as a whitish-gray powdery coating on the surface of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, remove the infected plants and debris, and avoid overhead watering. Improve air circulation by spacing plants appropriately, pruning regularly, and removing weeds. Fungicides may be used as a preventive measure.
2. Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves of Monarda fistulosa. The spots may be circular or irregular in shape and may have a reddish-brown margin. To manage leaf spot, remove and dispose of infected leaves and debris. Avoid overhead watering, improve air circulation, and space plants properly. Fungicides may be used as a preventive measure.
Pest Management
Monarda fistulosa L. ssp. fistulosa var. rubra Gray is also vulnerable to insect pests. Common pests that attack this plant include:
1. Spider mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the sap of Monarda fistulosa leaves. They cause yellowing, stippling, and eventually, leaf drop. To manage spider mites, reduce dust accumulation around plants and avoid drought stress. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control population numbers.
2. Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the leaves and stems of Monarda fistulosa. They cause curling of leaves and can transmit plant viruses. To manage aphids, prune infested parts and employ biological control agents such as ladybugs, green lacewings, and parasitic wasps. Alternatively, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or pyrethrin-based aerosols.
Proper management of pest and diseases is necessary to ensure the optimal growth and productivity of Monarda fistulosa L. ssp. fistulosa var. rubra Gray.
