When to plant Bee Balm in Nobles County, MN
In Nobles County, Bee Balm is a spring-only crop. Plant May 9–May 23 once soil hits 50°F.
When to Plant Bee Balm in Nobles County, MN
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.
Nobles County, Minnesota is in USDA Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is May 2 and the first fall frost is October 2, giving you a growing season of approximately 153 days.
At an elevation of 553 feet, Nobles County receives approximately 39.2 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 80°F, so choose short-season varieties of Bee Balm to ensure they mature before fall.
Nobles County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Bee Balm Planting Timeline — Nobles County, MN
Bee Balm Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 9 | May 9 – May 23 |
| Harvest | August 8 | Aug 8 – Oct 24 |
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 5a
📆 Growing Season
153 days in Nobles County
Growing Tips for Nobles 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 Nobles County, MN?
Nobles County is in Zone 5a with an average last frost of May 2. Plan your Bee Balm planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Nobles County, MN?
Nobles County, Minnesota is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is May 2 and first fall frost is October 2.
When should I plant Bee Balm in Nobles County, MN?
In Nobles County, MN, plant Bee Balm after the last frost (around May 2) and before the first frost (around October 2). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Nobles County, MN for Bee Balm?
Nobles County sits in USDA Zone 5a. Bee Balm grows reliably in zones 3a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Bee Balm grow in Nobles County's climate?
Yes — Bee Balm grows well in Nobles County's temperate climate. Nobles County averages a 153-day frost-free season, with last frost around May 2 and first frost around October 2.
Your Nobles County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Nobles County (Zone 5a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.