When to plant Bee Balm in Marshall County, KY
In Marshall County, Bee Balm is a spring-only crop. Plant April 10–April 24 once soil hits 50°F.
When to Plant Bee Balm in Marshall 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.
Marshall County, Kentucky is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 3 and the first fall frost is November 1, giving you a growing season of approximately 212 days.
At an elevation of 1,550 feet, Marshall County receives approximately 42.7 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 89°F, providing good warmth for Bee Balm during the growing season.
Marshall County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.5-7.1
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Bee Balm
Bee Balm needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Bee Balm Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 3.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 2.9" | 1.4" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 3.2" | 1.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 3.6" | 0.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 4" | 0.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 3.5" | 0.8" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 2.8" | 1.5" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | 4.3" | 3" | 1.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Dec | — | 3.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Nov in Marshall County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Bee Balm Planting Timeline — Marshall County, KY
Bee Balm Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 10 | Apr 10 – Apr 24 |
| Harvest | July 10 | Jul 10 – Sep 25 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| 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 7a
📆 Growing Season
212 days in Marshall County
Growing Tips for Marshall 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 Marshall County, KY?
Marshall County is in Zone 7a with an average last frost of April 3. Plan your Bee Balm planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Marshall County, KY?
Marshall County, Kentucky is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 3 and first fall frost is November 1.
When should I plant Bee Balm in Marshall County, KY?
In Marshall County, KY, plant Bee Balm after the last frost (around April 3) and before the first frost (around November 1). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Marshall County, KY for Bee Balm?
Marshall 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 Marshall County's climate?
Yes — Bee Balm grows well in Marshall County's temperate climate. Marshall County averages a 212-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 3 and first frost around November 1.
Your Marshall County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Marshall 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.