wild bergamot
Monarda 'Fireball'
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Frequent
Propagation:
Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
4 - 8
Flowers:
Ruby red Flowers
Sun:
Full sun,part shade
Fruits:
red Fruits Ready In Fall
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
High
Maintenance:
Moderate
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Wild Bergamot (Monarda 'Fireball') should be watered deeply and infrequently, allowing plenty of time for the soil to dry out between waterings. Water when the top inch of soil is dry, usually 1-2 times a week in summer, and 1-2 times a month in winter. Make sure to water at the base of the plant, taking care not to wet the foliage. Soil should have good drainage, as wet feet can lead to root rot.
sunlight
Wild Bergamot (Monarda 'Fireball') will perform best when planted in an area of the garden that receives 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. This plant thrives in warm temperatures and early-morning light, but will tolerate some mid-day shade. Wild bergamot will appreciate a location where there is indirect light or dappled shade after mid-day, especially in hotter climates. Avoid botanically rich, dense soil, and preferably provide well drained, loamy soil to help maintain the plant's overall health.
pruning
Prune wild bergamot plants (Monarda 'Fireball') during their dormant season, in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Prune out the older, woodier stems to increase air circulation, remove dead foliage, and to make room for new growth. Prune the stems back to 3-5 inches from the base. As the plant continues to grow, prune the stems selectively up to 6-8 inches, leaving new growth to remain and fill out the plant.
