When to plant Bee Balm in Clarke County, AL
Plant Bee Balm in Clarke County during the brief March 19–April 2 window. With 248 frost-free days, fall plantings can't mature before November 15.
When to Plant Bee Balm in Clarke 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.
Clarke County, Alabama is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 12 and the first fall frost is November 15, giving you a growing season of approximately 248 days.
At an elevation of 79 feet, Clarke County receives approximately 48.6 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.
Clarke County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.4-6.3
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" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 3.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | 4.3" | 4.2" | 0.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Apr | 4.3" | 3.3" | 1" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 4.1" | 0.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 3.9" | 0.4" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 5.7" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 5.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 3.9" | 0.4" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 3.4" | 0.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | 4.3" | 3.8" | 0.5" | 💧 Light watering |
| Dec | — | 3.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Mar–Nov in Clarke County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Bee Balm Planting Timeline — Clarke County, AL
Bee Balm Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | March 19 | Mar 19 – Apr 2 |
| Harvest | June 18 | Jun 18 – Sep 3 |
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 8b
📆 Growing Season
248 days in Clarke County
Growing Tips for Clarke 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 Clarke County, AL?
Clarke County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of March 12. Plan your Bee Balm planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Clarke County, AL?
Clarke County, Alabama is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 12 and first fall frost is November 15.
When should I plant Bee Balm in Clarke County, AL?
In Clarke County, AL, plant Bee Balm after the last frost (around March 12) and before the first frost (around November 15). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Clarke County, AL for Bee Balm?
Clarke County sits in USDA Zone 8b. Bee Balm grows reliably in zones 3a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Bee Balm grow in Clarke County's climate?
Yes — Bee Balm grows well in Clarke County's temperate climate. Clarke County averages a 248-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 12 and first frost around November 15.
Your Clarke County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Clarke County (Zone 8b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.