Monarda - herbaceous plant The Lamiaceae family has up to twenty species, most of which are perennial plants. The plant got its name in honor of the doctor Nicholas Monardes, who described Monarda in his books.
The historical homeland of monarda is North America and Mexico, where in some places it grows like a weed. Monarda was first brought to Europe, and specifically to Spain, by Columbus. But, unfortunately, the monarda was forgotten for a long time. And only a whole century later in Europe and Asia, monarda began to be grown as aromatic plant, because in almost all types of monarda, the inflorescences, stems, and especially leaves have a strong aroma. The aroma of monarda is very different: mint, citrus, and bergamot. Therefore, not only is it less susceptible to pests, but it also repels them from neighboring plants.
The stem of the plant is straight, from 65 to 120 cm high, the leaves are light green, oval, pointed at the ends, jagged along the edges, with sparse pubescence, located oppositely. Monarda has a long, horizontally growing rhizome. Racemose or capitate inflorescences of tubular-funnel-shaped fragrant flowers 6-7 cm in diameter, located one above the other along the peduncle. Depending on the species, the color of the flowers can be white, pink, red, lilac or violet, and the varieties with red flowers are the shortest. Monarda blooms profusely from July to late summer.
The culture includes annual and perennial plants. Perennial species monardas are unpretentious and winter-hardy, they are beautiful honey plants. Monarda looks great in group plantings in the garden. Some gardeners don't like monarda for the somewhat disheveled appearance of the flowers, but they have a special charm. And therefore, seeing the monarda in bloom, the gaze involuntarily stops at the bright spot that it forms.
Thanks to the high decorativeness Monarda is placed along the path, in separate curtains near a pond or recreation area.
Monarda is decorative in the flower garden long time- at first it blooms magnificently, and then flower stalks with fruits and nuts decorate it with their unusual appearance for a long time
It is recommended to grow monarda in one place for no more than five years, because by this time the middle part of the bush dies off and the decorativeness of the plant as a whole decreases. Therefore, it is necessary to divide and plant the monarda at least once every 4-5 years.
Landing place.
Monarda must be placed in a place protected from the wind, otherwise its stems will bend. Depending on the species, monarda prefers different places for its growth and sunny, open areas And penumbra. For example, mOnarda double grows best in moist, semi-shaded areas, and Monarda fistulata loves drier areas, well lit by the sun. In the sun, monarda blooms magnificently, but for less duration than in partial shade.
The plant is not undemanding to soils, but grows better in light, calcareous soils. Does not tolerate highly acidic and very damp places. Planted in such places it may die in 1-2 years.
The landing site is prepared in advance. To do this, dig up the soil, clear it of weeds, add compost (2-3 kg per 1 m2) and phosphorus-potassium fertilizers (30-40 g per 1 m2). Then they do holes, where a handful is added wood ash, mixed with fertile soil and watered abundantly with water. Plants are planted at the level of the root collar, without deepening, and the soil is thoroughly compacted. Then water again and lightly loosen the soil. It should be watered daily, but moderately, until complete growth. Plants are placed at a distance of 40-60 cm from each other so that they have sufficient feeding area.
Reproduction of monarda.
Monarda is propagated by seeds and by dividing the bush. It is recommended to divide and replant an overgrown monarda bush in the fall or in early spring. The bush is divided into parts containing 2-4 strong shoots and planted in a previously prepared hole. At autumn transplant the divisions will bloom next season. When dividing monarda, you can choose the bush you like best and propagate it. At the same time, the beautiful color of the flowers will be preserved and the harvest can be obtained in the first year after transplantation.
You can grow seedlings from seeds. Seeds are sown in mid-to-late March, not earlier than seedling did not outgrow. 2 weeks after emergence, they dive. At first, the plants grow very slowly. Plants are planted in the garden when stable warm weather sets in. Be sure to water when planting. When propagated by seed, monarda does not bloom in the first year after sowing.
Caring for monarda.
Caring for monarda is quite simple: loosening, timely feeding and weeding. Monarda responds well to fertilization - feeding with mullein (1:5) or mineral fertilizers(50-60 g per 10 liters of water) contribute to the formation of a large number of stems with large leaves and inflorescences. Feeding organic fertilizers must be alternated with mineral ones. When dry, hot weather sets in, it is advisable to mulch the soil with peat or humus so that the root system does not overheat.
Although monarda is quite winter-hardy, in the fall it is a good idea to mulch the plantings with compost with a layer thickness of 2-3 cm. In the spring, carefully loosen the plants and feed them with nitrogen fertilizer (10-15 g per 10 liters of water). Two weeks later, as soon as the plant begins to grow, it is necessary to add superphosphate (10-15 g per 1 m2).
After cutting the greenery, the plants need to be fed and watered abundantly, and be sure to loosen the soil. After this, the monarda quickly grows back and blooms again.
Using monarda.
Currently, monarda is widely used in floriculture: in mixborders, group plantings, and in the design of recreation areas. Excellent in bouquets - it lasts in water for more than 2 weeks. The long flowering of monarda and the aroma are liked not only by people, but also by many beneficial insects, primarily to bees and bumblebees, because it produces a lot of nectar. In winter, inflorescences with seeds are also decorative and useful for birds.
All parts of the monarda, except the roots, have a pleasantly tart and rather persistent aroma due to the content essential oil
, individual components of which are found in mint, basil, savory, caraway, hyssop and other aromatic plants. Monarda flowers and leaves are added to salads, okroshka, soups, meat dishes, casserole, porridge, jam, drinks, which gives them an original taste and unique aroma.
They can also be used for canning cucumbers and tomatoes. Lemon monarda is included in Earl Gray tea, giving it the aroma of real bergamot.
The harvest is harvested in the second year after sowing, because in the first year the monarda does not bloom. The branches are cut at a height of 25 cm from the soil surface or at the branch level. You can collect individual leaves for salad and tea leaves all season long. For blanks For future use, branches are cut off during flowering and dried in the shade.
All types of monarda have a strong bactericidal effect. You can use its juice to heal wounds. In modern medicine, monarda is used to treat burns, insect bites, and is used to prevent oral infections. Lemon monarda is used to treat bronchial asthma and chronic bronchitis. For fractures and wounds, it is recommended to brew tea from dry or fresh monarda (2 tablespoons of crushed leaves, flower stems, pour 200 ml of boiling water, leave for 20-30 minutes, strain and add sugar to taste. Drink 1/4 cup 3 times a day day). In addition, monarda improves digestion.
Because of the essential oils it produces, monarda can be called the guardian and healer of the garden. It itself is practically not damaged by pests, but it also scares them away from nearby plants.
Possible failures during cultivation.
Monarda is susceptible to diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. Plants planted in damp places may have shoots that rot. Therefore, in early spring it is advisable to treat the plantings with copper-containing preparations that increase resistance to diseases. But if the plant is grown for food or as a raw material for treatment, then it is better to use folk remedies: Treat with infusions of onion, garlic, tansy, and tomato tops.
The disadvantages of monarda include early exposure of the stems from below, so it must be decorated with low-growing plants.
The best partners in the flower garden.
The best partners for monarda are phlox, speedwell, catnip, aconite, various grasses, sapling, rudbeckia, goldenrod, heliopsis. With the participation of monarda, you can successfully design a flower garden in rustic style. If possible, the monarda should be planted in the center of the flowerbed. If the monarda is planted separately, then low-growing flowers should be planted around it so that the stems bare below are not visible.
In conclusion, I would like to say that many people now know and use Monarda. This plant is a godsend, it is both a vegetable and medicinal and ornamental plant. Some use it in decorative purposes, enjoying the aroma, others in cooking, others for treatment, and others use them as honey plants.
Plant monarda in your garden and you will never regret it. And also - write about your acquaintance with this wonderful plant.
Monarda is one of the most beautiful plants belonging to the Lamiaceae family. You can meet it in almost all corners of the world, on various continents. Monarda owes its name to the famous naturalist Carl Linnaeus, who thus forever wrote the name of his colleague Nicholas Monardes into history.
This Spaniard was diligently engaged in the study of botany throughout his life, and Linnaeus considered it fair to name one of the plants he studied in his honor. Monardes himself in his works called monarda Canadian oregano. Several centuries later this name changed to lemon balm and remained in this form until Linnaeus proposed his own version.
Planting and caring for monarda is very exciting process, loved by thousands of gardeners around the world.
Description of the monarda
Monarda is a relatively tall rhizomatous plant. Usually its height reaches one and a half meters. Monarda leaves have a pleasant smell and oblong shape. It is easy to recognize monarda by the pointed edges of its leaves. Flowers collected in a neat brush have small sizes. Their diameter usually does not exceed 7 cm.
In nature, monarda flowers are found in a variety of colors, the most common being white and red varieties. Flowers grow along the entire surface of the stem, making this plant very beautiful. The seeds are located inside the monarda fruit, which appears to the gardener in the form of a small nut.
Monarda seeds have a high germination rate. They keep it for 3 years. Monarda does not require many areas for planting. The plant can be planted on the same piece of land for 7 years.
Gardeners love monarda not only for its external advantages, but also for its pleasant floral aroma. Moreover, this smell is suitable not only for beautifying the territory. IN last years It has become fashionable to use monarda as a spice. Many connoisseurs even add it to tea and make planting and caring for Monarda exclusively for this purpose.
Planting monarda in spring
Care and planting of monarda open ground can be carried out before spring if we are talking about hot regions. This process does not require special preparation from gardeners. You just need to wait for a more or less warm February day and send the seeds into the ground.
Seed stratification will take place until April, and the cool spring climate characteristic of Russia will only speed up and facilitate it. And in April, the gardener will be able to enjoy the emerging shoots, which will be so dense that in a few more weeks they will have to be thinned out.
You should not plant monarda on land plot which is covered with snow. The snow cover should be removed and the ground should be warmed, tightly covered with cellophane film. The heated soil will then be much easier to loosen and mix with sand.
When the site is ready, all that remains is to sow the seeds. Monarda does not need great depth: the seeds should be planted no deeper than 2-2.5 cm. You can also use soil to sprinkle the sown seeds, but many experts note that ordinary sand is much better suited for this purpose.
Sowing monarda in the fall
Caring for and planting monarda can be done not only in spring. Many gardeners carry out this process before winter. If you have chosen this option, you should proceed to planting only after the season has finally ended and all the seeds have been collected.
To sow monarda before winter, it is very important to take into account the climatic conditions of the region in which you live. For a successful process, it is necessary for a serious cooling to occur: on one side of Russia it comes already at the beginning of October, but on the other it will have to wait until December. Warm weather is dangerous because seeds can germinate ahead of schedule.
The seed bed should be prepared in advance, as the soil takes time to settle. A distance of at least 0.25 meters should be maintained between furrows. Seeds are sown no deeper than 2.5 cm.
By the beginning of spring, the resulting seedlings need to be picked. This will ensure garden plot beautiful and hardy bushes. Experts advise showing more patience, as monarda emerges very slowly.
Planting monarda and caring for it at home
Monarda, which requires a lot of effort from the gardener to plant and care for in the open ground, can also be grown at home. Moreover, this method is the most popular among Russians planting monarda.
In order for everything to work out, a number of conditions must be met:
- Seedlings are sown already in mid-winter so that in April they are ready to be transferred to open ground. For planting it, ordinary wooden boxes filled with drainage and soil suitable specifically for flowering plants;
- Seed placement should be at a level of 2 cm;
- It is important to maintain the temperature at least 20 degrees. To do this, the box can be covered with film or a plastic bag.
At home, monarda ripens much faster. In less than a month, the long-awaited shoots will appear, and after another 3 weeks, full-fledged leaves will already ripen. After this, you need to pick up the monarda as soon as possible into separate glasses or larger containers.
Monarda does not really like moisture, so you need to water it carefully so as not to harm the plant. Due to the abundance of moisture, rot may appear on its stem or leaves. But the light - necessary condition For the growth of monarda, it is very important that the plant always stands in a well-lit place.
It is better to avoid high temperatures; it is worth maintaining the climate at 20 ºC, otherwise the monarda will stretch too much. If this does happen, you need to add soil to the glass with the monarda - this will help avoid deformation of the seedlings.
As new leaves appear, the monarda needs to be hardened off. To do this, you should take it out at least once a day. cold balcony and leave there without heating for an hour and a half. The time that the monarda spends in the cold should gradually increase. And after 2 weeks it can be safely transplanted into open ground.
How to create conditions for planting monarda in the ground?
Monarda, which requires a lot of effort to plant and care for in the open ground, will be able to fully bloom in a short time only if the gardener creates all the necessary conditions for it. This is not difficult to do, but you still need to be very careful.
For monarda, you should choose a plot of land well heated by the sun, which is reliably protected from the wind at any time of the year. However, monarda will be able to adapt to semi-shaded places. She needs light soil, generously enriched with lime and minerals. The soil should be moderately moist, but not waterlogged, as this can negatively affect the growth rate of the plant.
Spring is the ideal time to plant and care for monarda. But you should choose a place in the garden for it in advance, in the fall. The selected area is cleared of all weeds, treated to protect against insect pests, and enriched with manure (at least 2 kilograms per square meter).
Among the minerals that are especially useful for monarda are potassium salt, superphosphate and any lime. Nitrogen fertilizers will also not be superfluous, but they are added immediately before planting.
Planting monarda
Care and planting of monarda in open ground should take place after a sufficient number of leaves have formed on the seedlings. This will happen no earlier than 2-3 months from the start of planting work.
Monarda bushes should be located at a considerable distance from each other (about 60 cm). A newly planted plant needs abundant watering.
Monarda, transferred to open ground, is not at all afraid of Russian frosts. She can easily survive even sub-zero temperatures.
If the gardener used seed planting, he will see the first flowering only in the next season. But if he resorted to the help of seedlings, the monarda can bloom this year, but for this you need to take especially careful care of it.
Rules for caring for monarda
In spring and autumn, monarda does not need large amounts of water, but in summer it should be watered as often as possible. In the hottest weeks, monarda should be watered every day.
If a gardener, for some reason, neglects regular watering, the monarda may get sick. powdery mildew. In this case, caring for and planting monarda may be in vain, since the plant may not cope with this disease.
Monarda, like any flowering crop, needs active feeding. Agricola and Kemira are best suited for this purpose. The plant needs to be treated with them at least twice a month until the growing season comes to an end. Foundationazol will help protect bushes from various pests. Bordeaux mixture can also contribute to successful control of insects.
Reproduction of monarda by dividing the bush
For successful landing Monarda and caring for it, the plant needs to be propagated. The easiest way to do this is by dividing the bush. In addition, only this method allows you to preserve the characteristics of a particular variety and avoid the emergence of beautiful, but much lower valued hybrids.
The bush cannot be divided until it is at least 3 years old. When the required period has passed, this procedure can be carried out twice a year: in mid-spring, taking advantage of the fact that at this time the soil is properly warmed up, and at the very beginning of autumn. In order for everything to work out, you need to carefully remove the monarda roots from the ground and separate them.
New bushes return to the ground to their previous depth. It won't take much time for them to grow. After just 2 years, the resulting bushes will grow greatly, and the method of dividing the bush will have to be used again.
Reproduction of monarda by cuttings
Another method of propagating monarda involves the use of cuttings. To implement it, the gardener will need at least 7 cuttings 0.1 m long. These should be shoots from a large bush that have not yet reached the flowering stage.
All leaves growing from below on the cuttings are cut off. The top leaves are not completely removed, but are trimmed.
For cuttings, you need to prepare in advance a spacious box where they will be planted. The container should be filled with a substrate rich in minerals. However, you can do without this - the cuttings will be able to take root in a container filled with water.
No later than after 3 weeks, the cuttings will develop a developed root system. After this, they can already be transplanted into open ground, without doubting that they will be able to survive in it.
Diseases and pests
Monarda is a plant that extremely rarely suffers from diseases and insect pests. The bushes have a strong innate immunity, which is explained by the fact that they contain essential oils.
However, during the hot months of the year, monarda can get powdery mildew. This disease is difficult for bushes to tolerate and can even die from it. To protect your pet from powdery mildew, the gardener should regularly water the plant and mulch the soil.
Of the harmful insects, the weevil can harm the monarda, but driving it away is not difficult. In general, planting a monarda and caring for it will not take much effort from the gardener if he can carry out all the necessary procedures on time.
Collecting monarda seeds
From year to year, monarda seeds ripen at approximately the same time. This occurs at the end of August or the first week of September. Since the seeds can spill out and die, during this period you need to monitor the bushes as closely as possible.
Monarda, planted and cared for in open ground throughout the season, will inevitably produce a sufficient number of dried seeds. In order for them to finally ripen, they are cut and left to dry in a cool, shady area of the garden.
The resulting seeds can be immediately sent into the ground. But most often they are stored in order to be used next season. As noted above, monarda seeds have high germination capacity and do not lose it for 3 years.
Monarda obtained as a result of planting hybrid seeds will not be capable of performing parental functions. Seeds extracted from it will never give life to a new plant.
You can also leave the ripened seeds. In this case, birds will be able to feed on them during the winter months, and you will act as a breadwinner for a dozen feathered guests.
Preparing monarda for winter
One-year-old monarda is not able to cope with the harsh Russian frosts, so in the winter the flower beds are cleared of it. But the perennial monarda can withstand even extreme cold (down to -25ºC).
If even more severe frosts are predicted in your region in winter, you can help the monarda by covering it with cellophane, straw or hay for the winter. Since this coating can scatter throughout the entire area due to the wind, it is worth pressing it to the ground with any heavy load.
As soon as spring replaces winter, subzero temperature will remain in the past protective covering quickly moves away from the ground. This will help the plant quickly recover from hibernation and prepare for the new season.
Monarda varieties
Caring for and planting monarda in open ground would not be like this interesting process, if this plant did not have many varieties. Below we will talk about only the most popular of them.
Annual species of monarda are usually classified as citrus, hybrid and spot varieties. Citrus monarda is the tallest annual plant in the world. Its height can reach 1 meter.
The leaves of this plant contain a large number of essential oils, why lemon monarda often compared to basil or mint. This particular variety is used as a spice, adding the plant to tea to give it a unique taste.
She was born in Holland, where local breeders spent several years developing a new plant. Lemon monarda was also used in its creation, so the leaves of the hybrid variety smell the same as the leaves of the variety described above. Caring for and planting a hybrid variety of monarda is a process that is fundamentally different from the breeding of other varieties.
Known in wide circles under a different name. Botanists commonly call it horsemint. It is not difficult to distinguish this variety from others due to the large orange leaves that completely surround the inflorescence.
The types of perennial monarda include double, fistula and hybrid variety. Botanists learned about the double monarda in the middle of the 17th century and first described it in their works.
This variety has a considerable height - about 80 cm. The leaves are oval, pointed, practically odorless, but very beautiful, which makes the double monarda very popular among gardeners. The flowers have a pronounced purple tint, which becomes even more intense towards the end of flowering.
Monarda monarda is also known as wild bergamot. Its homeland is North America, where it grows freely without anthropogenic influence. Fillet monarda is one of the tallest varieties and reaches 120 cm.
Soft fluffy hairs grow on the surface of the leaves. The flowers are pale lilac in color. Russia became the birthplace of the dwarf monarda. Caring for and planting monarda of this variety requires special attention from the gardener.
The hybrid perennial monarda is famous for its color diversity. Its flowers can be white, red, violet, purple, and this is only part of a long list of colors and shades found in nature.
Medicinal properties
Caring for and planting monarda in open ground can also have practical benefits, since the plant has unique healing properties. Monarda contains not only essential oil, but also a whole complex of vitamins, among which vitamins of group C occupy a special place.
Essential oil is an unsurpassed antidepressant. It can also be used as an anti-anemic property, and even helps a woman with the implementation of reproductive function. If you consume essential oil regularly, you will minimize the possibility of suffering from radiation sickness or the formation of sclerotic plaques.
Monarda is actively used as a cosmetic product. It helps in processing oily skin in people over 45 years of age.
Contraindications
Yes, caring for and planting monarda certainly brings a lot of benefits. But there is a category of people for whom cultivation of this plant is strictly contraindicated. Under no circumstances should it be consumed by pregnant or lactating women. Monarda can also be dangerous for young children (under 5 years old).
– This is a fragrant spice, a plant of the Lamiaceae family. Its homeland is North America.
Monarda has long been used as a seasoning and medicine. By the 19th century, this herb became known throughout the world as bergamot, American lemon balm, and lemon balm.
Bergamot herb is an annual or perennial up to one and a half meters high. The leaves of the plant are oblong-lanceolate, straight toothed, fragrant. Monarda bergamot flowers are small and come in different colors: white, red, purple, yellow, and speckled. They gather in inflorescences 6-7 cm in diameter.
Monarda attracts people with its bright colors and amazing aromas. It is used as a spice in cooking, added to tea, and used in folk medicine.
Chemical composition of monarda
–This is an essential oil plant. Accordingly, the main biologically active component of the plant is essential oils. Thanks to them, monarda exudes a characteristic aroma. The plant is also rich in vitamins B1, B2, C, it synthesizes amino acids, bitterness, bioflavonoids, tannins, cellulose, and pectins.
Monarda essential oil contains about 40 components, 16 of which are essential. Most samples of monarda essential oil contain carvacol and thymol as the main element.
U different types plants their content is from 41% to 85%. Monarda essential oil also contains a high content of sabinene, terpinene, cymene, thujene, borneol, thujol, linalool, myrcene, and cineole. Within plant species, forms are distinguished that can differ greatly in oil composition.
Medicinal properties of monarda
The healing properties of monarda are provided by its chemical composition. The most valuable product obtained from this plant is essential oil, having a broad-spectrum bactericidal effect. Also, monarda essential oil has antioxidant, reproductive, antianemic, immunomodulatory, and radioprotective properties.
Well known anti-stress properties of monarda. At constant fatigue the use of this plant affects the central nervous system, its tone increases, vigor appears, and strength is restored.
The properties of the monarda plant are used to accelerate healing processes for eczema, burns, bronchial asthma, salmonellosis. Fights viruses, fungi, mycoplasmas.
Monarda has medicinal properties that allow you to fight helminths. Thymol contained in the plant has an anthelmintic effect. But the plant is used in conjunction with other means to combat this problem. Monarda also activates the action of antibiotics, which allows you to reduce the amount of their use.
The use of monarda in folk medicine
The use of monarda is popular in folk medicine. Positive effects are observed in diseases skin, gastrointestinal tract, central problems nervous system, gynecological diseases, fungal infections.
The presence of a large number of biologically active components makes it possible to use Monarda in homeopathy. In this area, it is used exclusively in fresh form. Plant extracts have a pronounced antimicrobial effect and have a positive effect on digestive processes.
Did you know? Monarda oil extract can be used for medicines. It is prepared at home by placing the dry plant in a container with vegetable oil in a ratio of 1:10, heating the mixture to 60 degrees for two hours. Filtered oil is used for runny noses and for treating wounds.
The use of monarda decoctions helps stimulate the immune system. This remedy is used for colds and for their prevention. Monarda can be brewed into tea.
For conjunctivitis, eye rinsing with Monarda is indicated. You can also wash any wounds on the body and apply lotions to them, which speeds up their healing.
For diseases of the mouth, gums, and throat, it is used Monarda tincture. Rinsing with tincture promotes rapid recovery and healing of wounds and ulcers on the mucous membranes. It is useful to gargle with Monarda for sore throats.
For inflammatory gynecological diseases, douching is used. There is also medical supplies containing monarda, prescribed for this type of disease.
Regular consumption of monarda helps reduce cholesterol levels in the blood and helps normalize cell activity. There is a gradual cleansing of the aorta and blood vessels from atherosclerotic plaques.
Did you know? Monarda in the form of essential oils is used as an air “purifier” from germs and pathogenic bacteria. During epidemics, it is very useful to add it to aroma lamps.
Application in cosmetology
Monarda is used in cosmetology in the form of essential oil and decoctions. The problem of teenage acne, acne and other skin diseases, including foot fungus, can also be solved by external use of decoctions and tinctures containing monarda. Effectively used to eliminate oily scalp problems and treat seborrhea.
Masks are prepared from a decoction of the plant with the addition of blue or white clay. To prepare decoction, You will need 2 tablespoons of raw materials and 200 ml of boiling water. The mixture is infused for 10 hours in a thermos. This decoction is suitable for washing to stop inflammatory processes in the pores of the skin.
Also used to delay old age. Regular massages using this oil renew cells and slow down the aging process.
Monarda is added to creams, skin care products after exposure to the sun, and in anti-aging lines. The use of products with this component tones the skin.
How is bergamot used in cooking?
The use of monarda flourishes not only in folk medicine and cosmetology. This herb is also often used in cooking, but is more often called bergamot.
The leaves, flowers and shoots of monarda have a tart, pleasant aroma. It is used in culinary recipes in fresh and dried form.
Examples of using bergamot monarda in cooking:
In sweet dishes, bergamot is combined with lemon balm, cinnamon, cloves, and orange zest. Procurement of raw materials from monarda
The raw material for medicines and culinary dishes is the above-ground part of the plant. The most favorable period for harvesting is the beginning of flowering. It is at this time that the plant has the highest concentration of essential oils.
The cut grass is dried in the shade, in a well-ventilated area. Thick, coarse stems can be immediately removed, which will facilitate further preparation of infusions and collections. The raw materials should not be crushed too much, as this can damage the essential oil glands. If this happens, the essential oil will evaporate, which significantly reduces the effectiveness of the raw material.
Monarda is an aromatic and medicinal flower. It's blooming ornamental plant with two-story bright flowers. Monarda has a lemon aroma. This plant has many names: wild bergamot, golden lemon balm, Indian nettle.
Did you know? Monarda essential oil has bactericidal properties and anthelmintic activity.
Varieties of monarda
- This is the most common type of plant. Grows wild in the area North America, reaches 80 cm in height. It has existed in culture since 1656. It has different variants color, the flowers are small and collected in a capitate inflorescence, which reaches 6 cm in diameter.
This species is native to Mexico and California. The plant is taller than a double monarda and has more branches. The stems of the plant reach 120 cm in height. The flowers are small, collected in spherical heads. Each stem has 5-9 inflorescences up to 7 cm in diameter.
There is also a dwarf form of the fistula monarda. They grow up to 35 cm, with lavender flowers.
Monarda hybrid. This is a combination of varieties of double and hollow monarda. The plant reaches 100 cm in height. Flowers come in a variety of varieties.
These three types of monarda are the most common, as they are all decorative and very fragrant. All this is because high content essential oil in the plant.
Grows in the wild in the USA and Mexico. The plant is distinguished by the fact that the leaves, flowers and stems smell strongly of lemon, mint and zest. Monarda is used as a spice and an ornamental plant.
There are also various varieties monards:
"Mahogany" is early variety. The flowers are dark red, the petals are curled at the ends. Blooms until frost.
"Adam" has scarlet flowers, grows exclusively in the sun.
"Croftway Punk" is the most attractive variety with a lilac-pink color.
"Snow White"has pure white flowers. The plant looks impressive in single-varietal plantings.
"Panorama"comes in crimson, pink, violet, white, red and lilac. Flowers can be grown by combining them with other plants.
Did you know? Monarda is used to flavor tinctures and wines.
Where and how best to plant monarda
Growing monarda does not require much effort. The plant is best planted in a sunny place on light soils, since in damp and sour earth the plant develops poorly.
The area for the plant is prepared in the fall, clearing it of weeds, digging and fertilizing the soil with peat, manure, potassium salt and superphosphate. Planting of monarda begins in the spring, periodically fertilizing the plant with nitrogen fertilizers.
If you decide to grow monarda using seeds, then this should be done in February. It is sown directly into the ground, and within two months the plant undergoes natural stratification.
In April you can expect the first strong shoots. If there is snow on the site, you should remove it and cover the area with film, as the ground needs to warm up. After this, you should loosen the soil and add a layer of sand.
Important! Monarda emerges very slowly.
After two months, when the plants sprout and three pairs of leaves form on them, the seedlings are transferred to the prepared area. The distance between them should be about 60 cm. After planting, abundant watering is necessary.
At frosts down to -5 °C the plant feels normal. Monarda begins to bloom within a year.
Most often, florists plant plants using seedlings. They are sown in January-February in boxes for vegetable crops so that the plant sprouts in spring.
You also need to mix the seeds with sand. The proportion should be 1:4. Then they are sown, sprinkled with sand on top. The depth should be no more than 2.5 cm.
Seedlings sprout after three weeks. After this, another three weeks should pass, and new plants should be planted in containers in a 3 by 3 pattern to increase the feeding area.
The seedlings are planted 3 cm apart and placed in a greenhouse. The temperature under the film should not be lower than 20 °C.
Did you know? Monarda was named after the botanist Nicholas Monardes who described it. From Great Britain, monarda came to Europe, where it is bred under the name “golden lemon balm” or “Indian nettle.”
Which neighbors to choose for monarda
Since monarda is used in landscape design, you need to know which plants it goes best with.
In any case, you need to choose a sunny place, since for bergamot it Better conditions For active growth and flowering. Wormwood and hydrangea go well with this plant.
Don't forget about dahlias and phloxes. In any combination with these plants, Monarda will look like a queen.
Did you know? For fractures and injuries, tea with the addition of dry or fresh monarda herb is recommended.
Caring for monarda in your flowerbed
After planting, you need to properly care for the monarda, then the plant will bloom for about ten years.
After flowering, the leaves, stems and flowers of bergamot fall off. This happens in September. Pruning can be done using garden shears.
Important! If the bush has grown densely, you can cut off several stems or roots.
At the end of April, the monarda blooms again. When caring for this plant, remember the importance of watering and fertilizing.
In the hot season, when there is a danger of the plant being damaged by powdery mildew, it is important to timely water the monarda.
The plant should not be allowed to dry out. Otherwise, the monarda may be affected by a fungal disease.
During peak heat, the plant must be watered daily. Also, in dry summers, you need to mulch the area with the plant with leaf humus and peat. This should be done in spring and autumn. Often you need to remove weeds and loosen the soil. This will ensure the plant rapid growth and abundant flowering.
Care also includes feeding bergamot. This should be done with granulated Kemira or Agricola. Feeding is carried out every two weeks from mid-May until autumn. For prevention, in spring and autumn, monarda is treated with “Fundazol” or copper sulfate.
It must be remembered that a weakened plant looks unattractive and blooms worse.
Did you know? Monarda has an antiviral effect, it is useful to infuse and drink it for colds.
How to prepare monarda for winter
It is important to prepare the monarda for winter, as this allows you to avoid some diseases and death of the plant.
Approximately in mid-October The stems of the plant should be trimmed to 10 cm.
By the end of October You should collect fallen leaves from the garden, as pests or a fungal infection can settle under them for the winter.
In November It is necessary to mow the lawn and remove dead plant elements, remaining leaves and needles.
Since the plant is winter-hardy, it tolerates temperatures down to -25 ° C, but it needs additional protection. This can be achieved by mulching or laying spruce branches. This will keep the plant from freezing during the wintering of the monarda.
Did you know? Monarda is one of the the best means in the treatment of cough, bronchitis.
Reproduction of monarda
Now that we have fully studied the care and methods of growing monarda, we should move on to propagating this plant.
Since the seeds do not retain varietal characteristics, it is more reliable to propagate the plant by dividing the bushes for 3-4 years.
This procedure is carried out in April or early autumn. The bush is dug up, the roots are cleared of soil under water and divided into equal parts. The cuts need to be treated with crushed coal.
Then the divisions are planted in holes that have been prepared in advance. Such divisions will have to be replanted two to three years after planting, since the plants grow up to 1 m in diameter.
The plant can also be propagated using cuttings. They are cut from the shoots before the monarda begins to flower. The lower leaves are removed from the cuttings, and the upper ones are shortened by a third. The cuttings should be 8-10 cm long.
Monarda is a representative of the Lamiaceae family, which received its name in honor of the botanist and doctor from Spain Nicolas Monardes. This Spanish scientist first described the monarda plant and told Europeans about it in his books “Medical History of Western India” and “Good News from the New World,” calling it Virginian oregano canada.
The lemon aroma of monarda has many benefits. With it, a person feels in a fresh and clean environment. Very attractive for any gardener is the fact that many plants that are not citrus fruits can fill his flower garden with this smell. These include lemon balm, lemongrass, some varieties of thyme and basil.
However, the aroma of monarda has the most pronounced resemblance to citrus; moreover, it contains various shades. This is why in England it is called bergamot, and the official name of one of the species is pronounced “lemon monarda”.
Varieties and types of monrada
It has a size of 70-90 cm, although rare specimens can reach 100 cm in height. The stem is tetrahedral, erect, and has branches. The leaves of the plant are oval, elongated, and have teeth. Plant flowers can have a variety of color palette: these are bright red flowers, and snow-white, and deep purple, and bright pink. The inflorescences have a diameter of 6-7 cm. They grow on the stem one after the other.
A herbaceous perennial plant that reaches a size of 0.7-1.5 m. The root is long and horizontal. The stem is tetrahedral, straight, and has small hairs. The leaves are pale green with pink veins, oblong, and have large teeth. The flowers are collected in a capitate inflorescence and have a lilac or violet hue.
The plant belongs to the Lamiaceae family. The plant has a strong root and resistance to all diseases and pests. It is used as a seasoning for meat and salads. Also as a flavoring agent for making jam and many desserts.
This name connects all hybrids of double and tubular varieties. This is a perennial with a height of up to 100 cm. The colors of the flowers can be very diverse: from white to purple. Also, the size of flowers varies: from small, collected in inflorescences, to large, single ones. Among the varieties of this hybrid there are a large number of subvarieties that differ in the density of flowering, the shade of leaves, and flowers.
This plant is also a perennial. Belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It has a large number of branched stems, the height of which reaches 60-120 cm. The leaves have teeth. The flowers are lilac and look like small balls, the diameter of which is approximately 6 cm.
The plant is a hybrid. Perennial, reaches a size of 80-100 cm. It has a long horizontal root and a straight stem. The leaves are pale green, located opposite each other, and have short petioles. The flowers have a rich red color, collected in a capitate inflorescence. All parts of the plant have a lemon-mint tart aroma. The plant is used as medicinal purposes, and as a seasoning. The variety is resistant to cold, as well as diseases and pests.
Herbaceous perennial that has unique flowers. Belongs to the Lamiaceae family. The height of the bush ranges from 700-900 cm, some specimens can reach up to 120 cm. The leaves are oblong with pointed tips. Possess green and a pleasant aroma. On the stem they are located opposite each other in pairs. The flowers are small, have a pleasant aroma, and are collected in capitate inflorescences.
A compact plant with pink, rather large flowers, collected in capitate inflorescences. The bush is low-growing, only 40 cm tall. The plant is compact and suitable for growing in containers. All parts of the plant have a pleasant smell. Its leaves are used to make tea.
Herbaceous perennial plant. The stems are tetrahedral, the height of the bush is up to 150 cm. The flowers can be of different shades, but they are all collected in capitate inflorescences.
This small plant, which reaches a size of 30-35 cm, has flowers collected in a thick plume. It has a pronounced aroma of bergamot. Used for growing in flower beds. The leaves are used as a spice.
If you look at the plant from afar, it may seem that huge spiders with furry legs are sitting on the plant. Such a plant has flowers. All parts of the plant exude an extraordinary aroma, which is why they are used as a spice. Among other things, the flower looks gorgeous in bouquets.
A perennial that has a long root, the stems of the plant are tetrahedral, reaching a height of 150 cm. The flowers are white, collected in dense whorled inflorescences. Used for group plantings in flower beds, and also looks great in bouquets.
Herbaceous perennial. The plant has the shape of a bush with numerous straight stems. Characterized by long-lasting and abundant flowering. The large capitate inflorescences have a much ruffled appearance. The colors range from pale pink to deep red. Gardeners value the plant not only for its beauty, but also for its medicinal and taste qualities. It is used to make tea. In the flowerbed it looks gorgeous in group plantings.
Reaches a height of approximately 100 cm, the flowers are red in color. Used to decorate flower beds in group plantings, looks great in bouquets.
The plant has the shape of a bush with a straight stem, the height of which is 70-120 cm, the stem is tetrahedral, the leaves have a pleasant smell.
It is a herbaceous perennial with silver-green leaves and two violet-purple flowers. The height of the bush is approximately 100 cm.
A herbaceous perennial plant with a pleasant lemon scent. Forms bushes with a diameter of up to 45 cm. Small purple flowers collected in whorled inflorescences. to his appearance resemble candelabra. A distinctive feature of the hybrid is long and abundant flowering.
Belongs to the Lamiaceae family. The flowers have a pleasant color and attractive shape. The plant reaches a height of up to 110 cm. Distinctive feature hybrid is its powerful stem and small dark green leaves. The flowers are bright red and have a fairly strong aroma.
Perennial quite unpretentious plants. The flowers have a dense spherical shape and an unusual wine-red hue.
Monarda planting and care in open ground
This flower grows best in full sun, but can also grow in partial shade. True, in this case its bushes will be lower and the flowering will be less abundant.
It is necessary to select a place for planting plants that will be well protected from the effects of winds, since the stems can bend and bend, losing their beauty.
On hot days, you should water the monarda moderately, in no case allowing the soil to become waterlogged. The plant also does not like overly dry soil.
To prevent the appearance of powdery mildew, it is necessary to water the plant in dry weather. If the summer is hot and dry, it is recommended to mulch the soil with peat.
Garden bergamot is one of the monarda varieties. It is grown during planting and care without much hassle, subject to the rules of agricultural technology. All necessary recommendations You can find information on growing and care in this article.
Soil for monarda
Monarda is not particularly demanding on soils, but still prefers light, calcareous, fertile soils. Does not do particularly well in heavy, acidic and marshy soils. It can also grow on poor soils provided that it is constantly fertilized.
The soil for the future growth of the flower is prepared in the fall. The soil is dug up, weeds are removed and compost, manure or peat is added in the amount of 2-3 kilograms per 1 m2, superphosphate - 50 grams and potassium salt - 30 grams.
If the soil is acidic, then it is necessary to add an additional 40 grams of lime per square meter. In spring, the soil is enriched with nitrogen fertilizer. Plants are planted at a distance of 60-70 centimeters between rows to provide sufficient free space for nutrition and growth.
Fertilizer for monarda
Plant feeding is carried out during the period of active growth and flowering. Monarda also needs additional feeding during the formation of new shoots and during the transition to the dormant period.
- In spring, the plant should be fed with a complex of mineral fertilizers. 12 days after this, repeat the procedure.
- In autumn, monarda is fed with potassium and phosphorus compounds.
- During active growth, foliar feeding is allowed. The leaves are sprayed with mineral fertilizers and microelements.
- When excessive high temperature air, the plant is treated with Epin solution.
Monarda in winter
In winter, the above-ground part of the plant must be completely cut off, and in the spring it will grow back.
The roots of the plant are frost-resistant and survive winters well without additional shelter.
Monarda growing from seeds
When growing monarda from seeds, they are sown in open ground in May to a depth of 1-2 centimeters. The consumption per square meter should be no more than 0.5 grams. In order to disperse the seeds more evenly, they are mixed with sand.
The seed germination temperature is 20 degrees. Monarda seedlings grow very slowly at first. It is necessary to constantly weed them to prevent them from being drowned out by weeds. Young plants are transplanted first at a distance of 10 centimeters from each other, and then at 20. Grown from seeds, monarda does not bloom in the first year.
If desired, you can sow seeds in March to obtain seedlings. The ascended monards, after two weeks, dive according to the 3x3 centimeter pattern. Planting in open ground can only be done once the threat of frost has passed. The distance between plants in one row is 30 centimeters, and between rows is 60 centimeters. Be sure to water when planting plants.
Reproduction of monarda by dividing the bush
To propagate by dividing the bush, you need to select a healthy plant, 3-4 years old. The bush is dug up and divided in the fall.
Each of the formed parts should have 3-4 shoots and roots. The cuttings are planted, just like seedlings, and watered several times.
They also practice propagation of monarda by cuttings of roots, considering this method to be the most effective.
Diseases and pests
When growing in a place that is too dry or over-fertilized, the plant is affected by powdery mildew. Rust damage can also occur.
Copper-based preparations are used for treatment. They are suitable only for growing monarda for bouquets.
If the plant is used as food, then the treatment is carried out using natural means - infusions of onion, garlic or tansy. In general, the flower is quite resistant to both diseases and pests.
Monarda medicinal properties and contraindications
Monarda essential oil is very valuable medicinally, especially when it comes to Monarda fistula, although the official and traditional medicine Almost all types and varieties of this plant are successfully used.
Almost all of its zones - flowers, foliage, shoots - are endowed with healing qualities. These include strengthening the immune system, toning the central nervous system, helping to improve well-being in case of weakness and fatigue, relieving stress, and getting rid of depression.
At the same time, the substances contained in the oil (in particular, thymol) help the body resist aging, strengthen the strength of capillary walls, stimulate the diuretic apparatus, favor the expansion of coronary vessels and lower blood pressure.
Monarda has long been used as a fragrant and healthy spice that improves digestive function. In summer and autumn, when canning takes place, its stems are placed in jars to prevent spoilage of the products contained in them.
Lemon monarda is an excellent seasoning for salads, but, for the most part, it is used as a flavoring for tea, fruit drink or kvass in order to give drinks a subtle lemon-resinous aroma.
