When to plant Bee Balm in Clay County, KY
In Clay County, Bee Balm is a spring-only crop. Plant April 25–May 9 once soil hits 50°F.
When to Plant Bee Balm in Clay County, KY
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.
Clay County, Kentucky is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 18 and the first fall frost is October 22, giving you a growing season of approximately 187 days.
At an elevation of 2,567 feet, Clay County receives approximately 54.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 86°F, providing good warmth for Bee Balm during the growing season. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Bee Balm root diseases.
Clay County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Bee Balm Planting Timeline — Clay County, KY
Bee Balm Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 25 | Apr 25 – May 9 |
| Harvest | July 25 | Jul 25 – Oct 10 |
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 7a
📆 Growing Season
187 days in Clay County
Growing Tips for Clay 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 Clay County, KY?
Clay County is in Zone 7a with an average last frost of April 18. Plan your Bee Balm planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Clay County, KY?
Clay County, Kentucky is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 18 and first fall frost is October 22.
When should I plant Bee Balm in Clay County, KY?
In Clay County, KY, plant Bee Balm after the last frost (around April 18) and before the first frost (around October 22). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Clay County, KY for Bee Balm?
Clay County sits in USDA Zone 7a. Bee Balm grows reliably in zones 3a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Bee Balm grow in Clay County's climate?
Yes — Bee Balm grows well in Clay County's temperate climate. Clay County averages a 187-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 18 and first frost around October 22.
Your Clay County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Clay County (Zone 7a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.