Height: 2.00 to 4.00 feet
Spread: 2.00 to 3.00 feet
Transplant (recommended): Sow the seeds in flats, barely covering them. Transplant to individual containers when the seedlings have their first true leaves. Transplant outside in the spring or summer, 6-8 weeks after starting the seeds, spacing plants 12-18" apart.
Direct seed: Sow from early spring up until 8 weeks before the first frost in the fall. Direct seed or sow in a cold frame to be transplanted when they reach a height of 3-4". Sow about one seed per inch in rows 18" apart. Thin to 12-18" apart.

DISEASE: Bee balm is very susceptible to powdery mildew, which is exacerbated by humidity and any kind of plant stress, even drought. To reduce the likelihood of mildew, keep the soil moist, minimizing overhead watering; space the plants far enough apart to allow for good air circulation between plants; remove diseased foliage to prevent the fungus from overwintering; and divide the plant about every 3 years, discarding the old center growth and replanting the new side shoots.

20180211 Flat 4 Prairie Moon
20180204 O flat #2 Prairie Moon
20170513 moved in prep for septic work
20170430 septic planting
20170429 $5 from Mellow Marsh farm at UNC botanic garden sale
20160517 Prairie Moon Order (lost; found 20170819)

Flavor: Minty
The nectar of this aromatic perennial, a member of the mint family, is attractive to bees and hummingbirds. The Oswego Indians in New York used the leaves for tea, giving this culinary herb its nickname: Oswego tea. Related to the bergamot used in Earl Grey Tea (same family but different genus), bee balm's blooms are strongly flavored and best used sparingly. Separate the petals from the main head to scatter over fruit salad, or steep the flower heads in liquid, then strain for a refreshing sorbet or jam. Substitute bee balm in recipes that call for Earl Grey tea.