When to Plant Bee Balm in Lake County, CO
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.
Lake County, Colorado is in USDA Zone 4a. The average last spring frost is June 21 and the first fall frost is August 30, giving you a growing season of approximately 70 days.
At an elevation of 7,687 feet, Lake County receives approximately 21.2 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 83°F, so choose short-season varieties of Bee Balm to ensure they mature before fall.
Lake County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.6-8.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 6/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Bee Balm Planting Timeline — Lake County, CO
Bee Balm Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | June 28 | Jun 28 – Jul 12 |
| Harvest | September 27 | Sep 27 – Nov 22 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | — |
| June | Transplant Outdoors |
| July | Transplant Outdoors |
| August | — |
| September | Harvest |
| October | Harvest |
| November | Harvest |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
90–120 days
Soil pH
6 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 4a
Growing Season
70 days
Growing Tips for Lake 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
Level Up Your Garden
Bee Balm in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Bee Balm in Lake County, CO?
Lake County is in Zone 4a with an average last frost of June 21. Plan your Bee Balm planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Lake County, CO?
Lake County, Colorado is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4a. The average last spring frost is June 21 and first fall frost is August 30.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Lake County gardeners in Zone 4a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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