horse balm

Horse balm (Collinsonia canadensis) should be watered regularly, but lightly. The soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings, so wait until the top inch or so of soil is dry before adding more water. Water these plants every 7-10 days during the growing season and less frequently, about every 2-3 weeks during the winter months when the plant is dormant. Too much water can lead to root rot, so never allow the plant to stand in water.

Horse balm (Collinsonia canadensis) requires full sun in order to thrive, although it can tolerate light shade. During the growing season, which typically lasts from early spring to mid-fall, horse balm should be exposed to direct sunlight for at least 6 hours each day. Since sunlight is an important source of energy to the plant, extended periods of shade or cloudy days can inhibit growth and cause deficiencies in the foliage. In winter months, when sunlight levels are naturally lower, horse balm may require up to 8 hours of sunlight each day. Additionally, it is important to remember that the strength of sunlight is also reduced with greater distance from the equator, so horse balm grown in higher latitudes may require additional amounts of sunlight.

Horse Balm (Collinsonia canadensis) should be pruned once in Early Spring before new growth occurs. Pruning should be limited to removing dead or damaged branches, thinning out excess growth, and shaping the shrub to retain its natural form. This species should not be pruned heavily as it can reduce or inhibit flowering. Pruning should not be done after mid-summer as this is usually when the plant begins to form flower buds and could reduce the number of flowers on the plant.