Bergamot is a fragrant herb in the mint family that produces a distinct citrusy aroma in its leaves and flowers. Both the bergamot orange (Citrus bergamia) and the bergamot herb (Monarda species) contain the signature oil though they are unrelated plants.
Should you enjoy Earl Grey tea or the smell of bergamot, you can grow your own plants at home and get fresh fruits and leaves. This complete growing guide will show you how to grow bergamot in your herb garden.
Choosing Bergamot Varieties
There are over a dozen Monarda species commonly called bergamot or bee balm. Popular varieties for cultivation include:
- Wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) – Most commonly used for tea and oil. Lavender blooms.
- Lemon bergamot (Monarda citriodora) – Strong lemon fragrance.
- Scarlet bergamot (Monarda didyma) – Bright red flowers.
- Purple bergamot (Monarda media) – Grows 24-36 inches tall with purple blooms.
For the best aroma and flavor, wild bergamot and lemon bergamot are top choices. Purchase seeds or transplants of your chosen variety online or from a local nursery.
Growing Conditions for Bergamot Plants
- Sun: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil: Rich, well-draining soil
- Zones: 3-10
- pH: 5.0-7.5
Bergamot thrives in sunny spots with fertile moist soil and good drainage. Established plants are quite drought tolerant.
How to Plant Bergamot
Bergamot can be grown from seeds, cuttings, or transplants:
- Seeds – Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your last frost date. Transplant seedlings 12-18 inches apart after hardening off.
- Cuttings – Take 4-6 inch stem cuttings in summer. Root in potting mix. Keep moist until rooted.
- Transplants – Plant young starts from nurseries in spring. Space 12-18 inches apart in garden beds.
Mid-spring, after the risk of frost has passed, is the best time to plant. Fall planting also works in zones 7-10.
Growing and Caring for Bergamot
With proper care, bergamot will thrive:
- Water 1-2 inches per week. Reduce frequency after establishment.
- Apply mulch in spring to retain moisture and discourage weeds.
- Prune spent blooms to encourage reblooming.
- Divide overcrowded clumps every 2-3 years in spring or fall.
- Cut back plants after first frost. Mulch for winter protection.
Bergamot has few pest issues but can get powdery mildew in humid conditions. Improve air circulation to prevent disease.
When and How to Harvest Bergamot
- Harvest leaves just before plants bloom. Use fresh or dried for tea.
- Pick flowers when fully open from early to mid-summer. Can also dry flowers.
- Cut plants back entirely in late fall after blooming finishes.
The essential oil is extracted from leaves and flowers by steam distillation.
How to Use Bergamot
Popular uses for homegrown bergamot include:
- Make bergamot tea from dried or fresh leaves/flowers. Enjoy plain or blended.
- Add dried bergamot to potpourri for its lovely citrusy fragrance.
- Make bergamot essential oil at home with a small steam distiller. Use for DIY perfumes, fresheners, and aromatherapy.
- Candy bergamot flowers for edible garnishes for desserts and cocktails.
- Add leaves/petals to fruit or green salads for flavor. Pairs well with citrus and stone fruits.
Bergamot is a great plant to add to any herb garden because it has bright flowers and a citrusy smell. If you want to grow these fragrant perennials successfully, use the tips above. For years to come, you’ll love the bergamot tea and essential oil you made yourself!
What’s the Next Step?
Picked out your plants? View our Resource Guide of garden centers, seed sources, landscapers, education resources, and more!
Where Should I Start?
Check out the Grow Native! Committee’s Top Ten picks of native plants for a particular purpose.
How to Grow Wild Bergamot (a.k.a Bee balm) – Complete Growing Guide
FAQ
Is bergamot easy to grow?
Wild bergamot is a popular flowering perennial and deer-resistant as an easily grown native garden. Bergamot needs to be watered so that the water is spread out evenly, and it needs to be planted in rich, well-drained soil.
Can you grow bergamot in the US?
Florida’s subtropical environment provides ample warmth and moisture, perfect for thriving Bergamot trees.Nov 7, 2024
Can you grow Wild Bergamot in pots?
Starting with the right pot size is crucial for the healthy growth of Wild Bergamot seedlings. For roots to grow properly, the pot should be between 4 and 6 inches across and at least 6 inches deep. Choosing smaller pots initially helps prevent overwatering, which is a common pitfall for new gardeners.
How long does it take for bergamot to grow?
How to Harvest Bergamot. Bergamot should be ready to harvest in approximately 365 days. When the stems are long enough to pick, bergamot is ready to be picked. It can be picked as needed. Harvest by pinching off the outer stems and leaves, leaving some on the plant for future growth.