23-03-2004, 06:32 PM
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Bee Balm Seedlings
Suja wrote:
Fleemo wrote:
Two seasons ago, I planted some Jacob Kline Monarda in the garden, and
had wonderful results. Last season, dozens of seedlings grew in the
same area, but not a single one grew to maturity. This year I have
lots of seedlings again and would like to ensure they grow to blooming
stage. What might I do to enhance their chance of success? Should I
thin out the seedlings so they don't compete with each other?
Fertilize frequently? Any advice appreciated.
Seedlings? Are you sure? Monarda generally spreads (quite vigorously)
from root. The clump just keeps getting bigger, and if you aren't
careful, will take over the entire bed. I planted a few Jacob Kline
last spring (tiny plants from Bluestone), and they have already spread
about a foot in each direction. I'll be hacking away at it to keep them
in-bounds.
Suja
I grow M. 'Jacob Cline' and agree that it's unlikely that Fleemo is seeing
seedlings of the plant. (I've seen reputable seed companies offering seeds of
this cultivar, so I'm allowing that it's possible to grow it true from seed,
but cultivation wouldn't be a casual thing.) My original clump has spread way
beyond the single plant I started with, but no plants have sprung up outside
the logical root environment.
In a happy location (bright, full sun to partial shade, soil that can be kept
moist), it'll be a moderate but enjoyable, nicely scented chore to keep the
plants in check. I've already moved many plants to other parts of the garden
and to other welcoming gardens.
For interest's sake, I'm going to try raise some seedlings this spring from
some 'Jacob Cline' seed I've saved from last year, just to see what happens.
But again, I've never seen any of plants not directly connected to the original
root system. Perhaps Fleemo has similar minty plants nearby that are seeding
the same area. If they are indeed M. 'Jacob Cline,' then yes, they should be
thinned out periodically, kept moist (but not muddy-wet), and not be coddled
with any special fertilizers. 'Jacob Cline' grows quite tall (mine have
reached 4-plus feet) and benefits greatly from being cut back several times in
spring/early summer so it will branch more, stay sturdy, and have many more
blossoms (and still get tall.....).
NOTE: Suja, do you see bees and/or butterflies on your Jacob Cline? Mine
attract hummers, but there has never been a bee or butterfly anywhere near
mine. (Thread from last summer.....)
Best,
Tyra
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