When to plant Bee Balm in Warren County, IA
Plant Bee Balm in Warren County, between May 3 and May 17 — the only viable window. Zone 5b's short season (166 frost-free days) rules out a fall crop.
When to Plant Bee Balm in Warren 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.
Warren County, Iowa is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 26 and the first fall frost is October 9, giving you a growing season of approximately 166 days.
At an elevation of 853 feet, Warren County receives approximately 30.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 87°F, providing good warmth for Bee Balm during the growing season.
Warren County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Bee Balm Planting Timeline — Warren County, IA
Bee Balm Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 3 | May 3 – May 17 |
| Harvest | August 2 | Aug 2 – Oct 18 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| 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 5b
📆 Growing Season
166 days in Warren County
Growing Tips for Warren 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 Warren County, IA?
Warren County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of April 26. Plan your Bee Balm planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Warren County, IA?
Warren County, Iowa is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 26 and first fall frost is October 9.
When should I plant Bee Balm in Warren County, IA?
In Warren County, IA, plant Bee Balm after the last frost (around April 26) and before the first frost (around October 9). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Warren County, IA for Bee Balm?
Warren County sits in USDA Zone 5b. Bee Balm grows reliably in zones 3a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Bee Balm grow in Warren County's climate?
Yes — Bee Balm grows well in Warren County's temperate climate. Warren County averages a 166-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 26 and first frost around October 9.
Your Warren County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Warren County (Zone 5b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.