When to plant Bee Balm in Clinton County, IA
Clinton County's 182-day season only supports one Bee Balm planting per year. Sow between April 24 and May 8 for the best chance at full maturity before October 16.
When to Plant Bee Balm in Clinton County, IA
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.
Clinton County, Iowa is in USDA Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is April 17 and the first fall frost is October 16, giving you a growing season of approximately 182 days.
At an elevation of 964 feet, Clinton County receives approximately 38 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 84°F, so choose short-season varieties of Bee Balm to ensure they mature before fall.
Clinton County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Bee Balm Planting Timeline — Clinton County, IA
Bee Balm Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 24 | Apr 24 – May 8 |
| Harvest | July 24 | Jul 24 – Oct 9 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | Harvest |
| 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 5a
📆 Growing Season
182 days in Clinton County
Growing Tips for Clinton 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 Clinton County, IA?
Clinton County is in Zone 5a with an average last frost of April 17. Plan your Bee Balm planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Clinton County, IA?
Clinton County, Iowa is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is April 17 and first fall frost is October 16.
When should I plant Bee Balm in Clinton County, IA?
In Clinton County, IA, plant Bee Balm after the last frost (around April 17) and before the first frost (around October 16). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Clinton County, IA for Bee Balm?
Clinton County sits in USDA Zone 5a. Bee Balm grows reliably in zones 3a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Bee Balm grow in Clinton County's climate?
Yes — Bee Balm grows well in Clinton County's temperate climate. Clinton County averages a 182-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 17 and first frost around October 16.
Your Clinton County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Clinton County (Zone 5a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.