When to plant Bee Balm in Highlands County, FL
Highlands County sits in cold Zone 9b. Plant Bee Balm February 5–February 19 for the single annual harvest; the December 20 first frost closes the window.
When to Plant Bee Balm in Highlands County, FL
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.
Highlands County, Florida is in USDA Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is January 29 and the first fall frost is December 20, giving you a growing season of approximately 325 days.
At an elevation of 111 feet, Highlands County receives approximately 57.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sand soil. Summer highs average 95°F, so Bee Balm may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Bee Balm will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Bee Balm root diseases.
Highlands County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Bee Balm Planting Timeline — Highlands County, FL
Bee Balm Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | February 5 | Feb 5 – Feb 19 |
| Harvest | May 7 | May 7 – Jul 23 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Transplant Outdoors |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| 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 9b
📆 Growing Season
325 days in Highlands County
Growing Tips for Highlands 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 Highlands County, FL?
Highlands County is in Zone 9b with an average last frost of January 29. Plan your Bee Balm planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Highlands County, FL?
Highlands County, Florida is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is January 29 and first fall frost is December 20.
When should I plant Bee Balm in Highlands County, FL?
In Highlands County, FL, plant Bee Balm after the last frost (around January 29) and before the first frost (around December 20). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Highlands County, FL for Bee Balm?
Highlands County sits in USDA Zone 9b. Bee Balm grows reliably in zones 3a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Bee Balm grow in Highlands County's climate?
Yes — Bee Balm grows well in Highlands County's temperate climate. Highlands County averages a 326-day frost-free season, with last frost around January 29 and first frost around December 20.
Your Highlands County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Highlands County (Zone 9b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.