When to Plant Bee Balm in Whatcom County, WA
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.
Whatcom County, Washington is in USDA Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is April 6 and the first fall frost is October 29, giving you a growing season of approximately 206 days.
At an elevation of 386 feet, Whatcom County receives approximately 49 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 85°F, providing good warmth for Bee Balm during the growing season.
Whatcom County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.2-6.4
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
Bee Balm Planting Timeline — Whatcom County, WA
Bee Balm Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 13 | Apr 13 – Apr 27 |
| Harvest | July 13 | Jul 13 – Sep 28 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| 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
6 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 7b
Growing Season
206 days
Growing Tips for Whatcom 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 Whatcom County, WA?
Whatcom County is in Zone 7b with an average last frost of April 6. Plan your Bee Balm planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Whatcom County, WA?
Whatcom County, Washington is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is April 6 and first fall frost is October 29.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Whatcom County gardeners in Zone 7b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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