When to Plant Bee Balm in Cherokee County, TX
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.
Cherokee County, Texas is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 6 and the first fall frost is November 16, giving you a growing season of approximately 255 days.
At an elevation of 339 feet, Cherokee County receives approximately 68.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sandy loam soil. Summer highs average 95°F, so Bee Balm may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Bee Balm will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Bee Balm root diseases.
Cherokee County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.7
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 | — | 1.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 2.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | 4.3" | 4.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Apr | 4.3" | 6.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| May | 4.3" | 10" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 4.3" | 12.4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 8.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 7.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 6.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Oct | 4.3" | 4.1" | 0.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | 4.3" | 2.5" | 1.8" | 💧 Light watering |
| Dec | — | 1.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Mar–Nov in Cherokee County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Bee Balm Planting Timeline — Cherokee County, TX
Bee Balm Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | March 13 | Mar 13 – Mar 27 |
| Harvest | June 12 | Jun 12 – Aug 28 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Transplant Outdoors |
| April | — |
| May | — |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | — |
| 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 8b
📆 Growing Season
255 days in Cherokee County
Growing Tips for Cherokee 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 Cherokee County, TX?
Cherokee County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of March 6. Plan your Bee Balm planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Cherokee County, TX?
Cherokee County, Texas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 6 and first fall frost is November 16.
Your Cherokee County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Cherokee County (Zone 8b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.