When to plant Bee Balm in Clinton County, MI
Clinton County's short 166-day growing season means one Bee Balm planting between May 7 and May 21. No fall crop in Zone 6a.
When to Plant Bee Balm in Clinton County, MI
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, Michigan is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 30 and the first fall frost is October 13, giving you a growing season of approximately 166 days.
At an elevation of 519 feet, Clinton County receives approximately 34.1 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, MI
Bee Balm Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 7 | May 7 – May 21 |
| Harvest | August 6 | Aug 6 – Oct 22 |
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 6a
📆 Growing Season
166 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, MI?
Clinton County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of April 30. Plan your Bee Balm planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Clinton County, MI?
Clinton County, Michigan is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 30 and first fall frost is October 13.
When should I plant Bee Balm in Clinton County, MI?
In Clinton County, MI, plant Bee Balm after the last frost (around April 30) and before the first frost (around October 13). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Clinton County, MI for Bee Balm?
Clinton County sits in USDA Zone 6a. 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 166-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 30 and first frost around October 13.
Your Clinton County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Clinton County (Zone 6a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.