Growing Bergamot from seed indoors is best for the annual Monarda Hybrida “Lambada”. Wild bergamot can also be started indoors 8 to 10 weeks before planting out.

Is bergamot easy to grow?

Wild bergamot is so easy to grow because it’s a member of the mint family, which is notorious for being so prolific it’s almost a pest if not controlled by the gardener.

Where does bergamot grow best?

Bergamot grows best in a moist, rich loam with a pH between 6 and 8, although loam soils may cause the plant to flop around during the growing season. Wild bergamot can actually tolerate almost any soil condition, from clay to rocky to nutritionally deficient soil, as long as it’s well drained.

How long does it take bergamot to grow?

Sow indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost, or direct sow in early spring when a light frost is still possible. Seeds can also be direct sown in the fall, as the first frost approaches. Optimal soil temperature for germination: 15-21°C (60-70°F). Seeds should sprout in 10-40 days.

Is bergamot hard to grow?

Bergamot Plant Propagation



Propagating Bergamot Plant is easy through seeds, stem cutting, and root division. However, getting a healthy cutting is an easier and most trustable option. Get a healthy and disease-free Bergamot plant and cut a stem below the plant node with a clean, sanitized shear.

Why is bergamot not edible?

The fruit is sour and not edible and grown for its essential oil, which is contained in the peel. Bergamot oil imparts unique flavor or Earl Grey tea.

Does bergamot come back every year?


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Should bergamot be cut back?

Wild bergamot need to be pruned in spring and have the buds pinched out at the seedling stage. this tip can help to control their height and promote branching. To adjust the height of wild bergamot, pruning once in late spring or early summer is also advised.

How long does it take for bergamot seeds to sprout?

10 to 40 days

To Direct Sow Bergamot:



Germination can take anywhere from 10 to 40 days.

Should bergamot be deadheaded?

Bee balm or bergamot (Monarda), another member of the indomitable mint family, also responds to deadheading.

How does bergamot spread?

Wild Bergamot is in the mint family and spreads by slender underground rhizomes, though it is clump forming and not invasive. Tufted lavender flowers are produced at the end of each stem.

Who should not take bergamot?

Blood sugar issues.



It’s important to monitor those levels if you choose to use bergamot supplements. Even if you don’t have diabetes, bergamot could make it harder for doctors to control your blood sugar during surgery. Experts recommend that you stop using bergamot supplements two weeks before you have surgery.

Are bergamot leaves edible?

The Whole Plant – As mentioned, the whole of the aerial (above ground) parts of wild bergamot are edible. This means you can cut the stalk and use the whole plant as a potherb. Don’t overdo it, because the plant is very aromatic. Leaves – The leaves are edible either raw or cooked.