When to Plant Bee Balm in Bibb County, AL
Bee balm is a native perennial herb with shaggy, scarlet flower heads that attract hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. Its leaves make an aromatic tea reminiscent of Earl Grey.
Bibb County, Alabama is in USDA Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 14 and the first fall frost is November 13, giving you a growing season of approximately 244 days.
At an elevation of 66 feet, Bibb County receives approximately 59.2 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 92°F, providing good warmth for Bee Balm during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Bee Balm, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Bee Balm root diseases.
Bibb County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.3-6.6
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Bee Balm
Bee Balm needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Bee Balm Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 4.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 4.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | 4.3" | 6.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Apr | 4.3" | 5.4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| May | 4.3" | 4.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 4.3" | 4.9" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 6.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 4.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Oct | 4.3" | 3.4" | 0.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | 4.3" | 4.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Dec | — | 4.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Mar–Nov in Bibb County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Bee Balm Planting Timeline — Bibb County, AL
Bee Balm Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | March 21 | Mar 21 – Apr 4 |
| Harvest | June 20 | Jun 20 – Sep 5 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Transplant Outdoors |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | — |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
90–120 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 7b
📆 Growing Season
244 days in Bibb County
Growing Tips for Bibb County
Start from seed, divisions, or transplants. Provide good air circulation to prevent powdery mildew. Deadhead spent flowers for reblooming. Divide clumps every 3 years.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Bee Balm in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Bee Balm in Bibb County, AL?
Bibb County is in Zone 7b with an average last frost of March 14. Plan your Bee Balm planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Bibb County, AL?
Bibb County, Alabama is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 14 and first fall frost is November 13.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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