Bee Balm (Monarda)

Midnight Reiter Too · Post by **Midnight Reiter Too** » Apr 30, 2006 6:42 pm

I read that it is susceptible to mildew. Do they have to be watered in the morning like zinnias?

Nathalie23 · Post by **Nathalie23** » Apr 30, 2006 8:15 pm

Hi! Yes, indeed, mines have mildew

Someone said to me that compost help for it. Watering in the morning is also a good choice. I plant them back with medium plant in front so we see less the mildew.

Midnight Reiter Too · Post by **Midnight Reiter Too** » May 01, 2006 8:45 am

Thanks, Nathalie!

KellieD · Post by **KellieD** » May 01, 2006 10:32 am

Mine never got mildew no matter how much I neglected them and had them planted in what was supposedly the worst conditions for them, Go figure

Linda P · Post by **Linda P** » May 02, 2006 8:51 am

Some of mine get mildew, some don't. There are newer hybrids that are far less susceptible to it. I think the clump that does the best is the one planted in about an inch or two of soil over an old gravel driveway. I have a friend who grew them in a very sandy soil, and hers never had mildew. Most of mine are just surrounded with other plants, so that you just see the blossoms and the ratty foliage isn't so evident.
Linda P