Bee balm: A vibrant garden addition that repels ticks

Colourful element of any garden - bee balm, also known as monarda or bergamot, is a plant that not only beautifies the space with its diversity of colours, ranging from burgundy through cream, pink, purple to yellow, but also effectively repels ticks. It is the ideal decoration for any garden due to its variety and unique appearance.

A characteristic feature of bee balm is its appearance and its scent, which it owes to essential oils. These oils give the plant lemon, strawberry, and even lavender scents. Such aromas attract beneficial insects, including butterflies and bees, while repelling ticks.

Bee balm thrives best in sunny or partially shaded spots. It blooms from July to September, which means you can enjoy its beauty for an extended time. The soil should be fertile and slightly moist but not excessively wet.

Caring for bee balm includes regular watering and pruning. Hot days require more frequent watering, but excess water should be avoided. Pruning is recommended after flowering, which stimulates the plant to bloom again. Bee balm is frost-resistant, so it does not need to be covered for the winter.

Ticks pose a threat mainly because they can transmit various diseases that are dangerous to the health of humans and animals. Here are a few reasons why ticks are hazardous:

• Lyme disease
• Tick-borne encephalitis
• Babesiosis
• Anaplasmosis
• Tularemia

Due to these threats, it is crucial to protect yourself from ticks, especially when spending time in wooded areas or tall grass. Protection includes wearing appropriate clothing, using repellents, and thoroughly checking the body after being outdoors. In the case of a tick bite, it is crucial to remove it quickly and correctly and to monitor for any symptoms of tick-borne diseases.

Bee balm is a beautiful and practical plant for any garden. Its ability to repel ticks and attract beneficial insects makes it ideal for gardening enthusiasts. If you want to enjoy its charms, it is worth planting now.