Indian nettles (Monarda), also commercially known as "Goldbalm", are beautiful perennials for colorful beds. They have their flowering peak in midsummer and early autumn. Good companions are grasses, late-flowering perennials such as silver candles, goldenrod, coneflowers or asters that bloom in late summer. The location is ideally sunny to semi-shady.

Indian nettle blooms longer in semi-shade

Sunny to light semi-shady - Indian nettle for every location

In their natural habitat, the Indian nettle can be found mainly on damp meadows and on sparse forest edges. For this reason, most Monarda thrive best in light partial shade, whereby they particularly appreciate the morning and evening sun. In full sun, on the other hand, the enchanting flowers fade quickly. On the other hand, there are specially bred varieties that do very well even in sunny places.

Indian nettles love loose, slightly moist soil

Basically, most Indian nettles like a loose, permeable and, above all, slightly moist soil. As prairie plants, the perennials are accustomed to drought, but bloom little during such periods. It is best to add compost and/or some peat (or peat substitutes) to the potting soil.

tips

Due to the strong scent of bergamot or peppermint, the Indian nettle is not particularly popular with mosquitoes and other insects. It is therefore best to plant the perennial near seating areas, such as the terrace.

Category:

Vegetable garden