When to plant Bee Balm in McCracken County, KY
In McCracken County, Bee Balm is a single-season spring crop — there's no second fall window. Plant April 6–April 20 for an 90–120-day harvest, finishing well before the October 30 first frost.
When to Plant Bee Balm in McCracken 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.
McCracken County, Kentucky is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is March 30 and the first fall frost is October 30, giving you a growing season of approximately 214 days.
At an elevation of 1,445 feet, McCracken County receives approximately 48 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 86°F, providing good warmth for Bee Balm during the growing season.
McCracken County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Bee Balm Planting Timeline — McCracken County, KY
Bee Balm Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 6 | Apr 6 – Apr 20 |
| Harvest | July 6 | Jul 6 – Sep 21 |
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
214 days in McCracken County
Growing Tips for McCracken 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 McCracken County, KY?
McCracken County is in Zone 7a with an average last frost of March 30. Plan your Bee Balm planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is McCracken County, KY?
McCracken County, Kentucky is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is March 30 and first fall frost is October 30.
When should I plant Bee Balm in McCracken County, KY?
In McCracken County, KY, plant Bee Balm after the last frost (around March 30) and before the first frost (around October 30). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is McCracken County, KY for Bee Balm?
McCracken 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 McCracken County's climate?
Yes — Bee Balm grows well in McCracken County's temperate climate. McCracken County averages a 214-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 30 and first frost around October 30.
Your McCracken County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for McCracken 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.