When to plant Bee Balm in Coffee County, AL
Plant Bee Balm in Coffee County, between March 19 and April 2 — the only viable window. Zone 8b's short season (247 frost-free days) rules out a fall crop.
When to Plant Bee Balm in Coffee 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.
Coffee County, Alabama is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 12 and the first fall frost is November 14, giving you a growing season of approximately 247 days.
At an elevation of 342 feet, Coffee County receives approximately 55.7 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 97°F, so Bee Balm may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. 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.
Coffee County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Bee Balm Planting Timeline — Coffee 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
247 days in Coffee County
Growing Tips for Coffee 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 Coffee County, AL?
Coffee 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 Coffee County, AL?
Coffee County, Alabama is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 12 and first fall frost is November 14.
When should I plant Bee Balm in Coffee County, AL?
In Coffee County, AL, plant Bee Balm after the last frost (around March 12) and before the first frost (around November 14). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Coffee County, AL for Bee Balm?
Coffee 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 Coffee County's climate?
Yes — Bee Balm grows well in Coffee County's temperate climate. Coffee County averages a 247-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 12 and first frost around November 14.
Your Coffee County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Coffee 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.