Wild Bergamot

Choosing Wild Bergamot

Hello, future gardener! Wild Bergamot is a beautiful and fragrant plant that attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies. You can find seeds or young plants at local nurseries or garden centers. If you're just starting out, buying young plants might be easier than starting from seeds.

Tip: Look for healthy-looking plants with no yellow or wilted leaves.

Timing

Wild Bergamot is a hardy plant that thrives in cooler weather. The best time to plant is in the spring after the last frost or in early fall. This gives the plant enough time to establish roots before winter.

Tools and Materials

Wild Bergamot seeds or young plants

A garden spade or trowel

Garden soil or compost

Watering can or hose

Mulch (optional, for moisture retention)

• Sunny to partially shaded location

Tip: You don't need fancy tools—basic gardening tools will do just fine!

If Using Seeds:

1. Choose a sunny or lightly shaded spot in your garden.
2. Loosen the soil with a garden spade or your hands.
3. Sprinkle the seeds on top of the soil and lightly cover them with a thin layer of soil.
4. Gently water the area, keeping the soil moist but not soggy.
5. Seeds will germinate in about 10-14 days.

If Using Young Plants:

1. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball of the young plant.
2. Place the plant in the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the ground.
3. Fill in the hole with soil and gently firm it around the base of the plant.
4. Water thoroughly until the soil is moist.

Tip: Space the plants about 18-24 inches apart to give them room to grow.

Sunlight Requirements

Wild Bergamot loves sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. Aim for at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily. If you notice the plant getting too leggy, it might need more sun.

Watering Method

• Water regularly, especially during dry spells.
• Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
• Check the soil every few days; if the top inch feels dry, it's time to water.

Tip: Water in the morning to allow any wet leaves to dry during the day, which helps prevent diseases.

Fertilizing Tips

• Wild Bergamot doesn’t require heavy fertilization. A light application of compost or a balanced fertilizer once a year is sufficient.
• Apply the fertilizer in early spring as new growth begins.

Tip: Over-fertilizing can lead to lush foliage but fewer flowers, so less is more!

When to Harvest

Wild Bergamot blooms from early summer to early fall. The flowers are typically lavender-pink and very fragrant. You can harvest the flowers when they are fully open for fresh use or drying.

How to Harvest

• Use clean scissors or pruning shears to cut the flower stems.
• Cut just above a leaf node (where the leaves meet the stem) to encourage more blooms.
• You can also pick individual flowers for immediate use.

Storage

• Fresh flowers can be used in salads or as garnishes.
• To dry, hang small bunches upside down in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Once dried, store the flowers in an airtight container.

Tip: Dried flowers can be used in teas or potpourri.

1. Yellow Leaves

Cause: Overwatering or poor drainage.

Solution: Ensure the soil is well-draining and reduce watering frequency. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.

2. No Blooms

Cause: Too much shade or over-fertilization.

Solution: Move the plant to a sunnier location or reduce fertilizer applications. Focus on providing adequate sunlight.

3. Powdery Mildew

Cause: High humidity or poor air circulation.

Solution: Improve air circulation by spacing plants properly. Avoid overhead watering and prune affected leaves.

4. Pests

Cause: Aphids, spider mites, or other common garden pests.

Solution: Spray the plant with a mixture of water and a few drops of dish soap. For severe infestations, consider using an organic insecticide.

5. Plant Spreading Too Much

Cause: Wild Bergamot can spread aggressively via rhizomes.

Solution: Regularly prune the plant to control its size. Consider planting it in a contained area or pot to prevent spreading.