Garden Photo of the Day

Pink on pink

Click here to enlarge this photo.
Photo/Illustration: Michelle Gervais

In the horticulture gardens at Michigan State University, bee balm (Monarda didyma cv., USDA Hardiness Zones 4-9) mingles with mallow (Lavatera cachemiriana, Zones 4-9) by a powder blue post. It’s a feminine, cottagey combo that’s universally appealing.

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Comments

  1. reggiejohnson 11/04/2010

    Been having trouble with all my bee balms in my latest gardens, grey fungus - lousy, short lived blooms, etc. Very unlike past experiences with this plant.
    Any ideas?

  2. MichelleGervais 11/04/2010

    Reggie - I've heard that it helps to thin out the stems of your plants in spring to increase air circulation. There are also a few new varieties that are supposedly more mildew-resistant than most.

  3. sheilaschultz 11/04/2010

    I planted 'the perfect' monarda in the front of one of my gardens. 15" to 18" tall, gorgeous color (Fireball) and mildew resistant. Fast forward to mid-summer...48" on average and covered with mildew, but the color was fabulous! Thinning will be done early spring next year!

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