This flower is a classic, timeless choice for a garden bustling with butterflies, bees, and birds. Native to North America, bee balm (Monarda spp., zones 3 to 9), is widely available in bright colors ...

Seed expert Emily Blaisden also recommends early pruning using the “Chelsea chop” method—removing 1/3 to 1/2 of the plant.

Bee balm, while attractive to pollinators, is highly invasive and difficult to control in garden beds. The author regrets planting multiple varieties of bee balm in close proximity, resulting in the ...