Should I Plant Bee Balm Next to Tomato or Cucumber?

Bee balm, or Monarda, is a beautiful flowering herb that attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds to your garden. This herb is also known for its medicinal properties and the hot and spicy flavor it adds to teas, salads, and other dishes. However, if you are planning to grow bee balm, you might wonder whether it is better to plant it next to tomato or cucumber, two popular garden veggies. In this article, we'll explore the benefits and drawbacks of each combination, so you can make an informed decision.

Bee Balm and Tomato: A Winning Combo?

Tomatoes are one of the most popular garden vegetables, and for good reasons. They are easy to grow, versatile, and delicious, whether you eat them fresh, cooked or canned. Moreover, they are rich in nutrients such as vitamins C, K, and potassium, and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease.

So, should you plant bee balm next to tomato? The answer is yes, if you want to attract pollinators such as bees, bumblebees, and hoverflies that can help your tomatoes produce more fruit. Bee balm is a magnet for these beneficial insects, thanks to its colorful flowers and fragrant leaves that release volatile oils that mimic the scent of pheromones. By planting bee balm next to tomato, you can create a natural ecosystem that supports biodiversity and enhances the health of your garden.

Another reason to plant bee balm next to tomato is that it may help repel pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites that can damage your tomato plants. Bee balm contains chemicals called thymol and carvacrol, which are toxic to many insects and fungi. These compounds may act as a natural pesticide and protect your tomatoes from harmful invaders.

However, there are some drawbacks to planting bee balm next to tomato. One is that bee balm may grow tall and bushy, and shade the tomato plants, reducing their sun exposure and lowering their yield. To prevent this, you can prune the bee balm regularly and stake the tomato plants to keep them upright. Another issue is that bee balm may compete with tomato for water, nutrients, and space, especially if they are planted too close. To avoid this, you should space them at least 18 inches apart and provide them with plenty of organic matter, compost, and water.

Bee Balm and Cucumber: A Perfect Match?

Cucumbers are another popular garden vegetable that can be grown in a variety of ways, such as vines, bush, or trellis. Cucumbers are low in calories, high in water, and rich in vitamins K and C, minerals such as potassium and magnesium, and antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.

So, can you plant bee balm next to cucumber? The answer is yes, but with some reservations. Like tomatoes, cucumbers need pollinators to set fruit, and bee balm can help attract them. Moreover, bee balm and cucumber share some cultural requirements, such as well-drained soil, full sun or partial shade, and regular watering. By planting them together, you can save space, improve aesthetics, and create a diverse and beautiful garden.

However, there are also some concerns about planting bee balm next to cucumber. One is that bee balm may not be compatible with some cucumber varieties, especially those that are prone to powdery mildew or other fungal diseases. Bee balm belongs to the mint family, which can be a carrier of some plant diseases and pests, such as rust, verticillium wilt, and cucumber beetle. To avoid this, you should choose healthy and disease-resistant cucumber varieties, and inspect them regularly for signs of trouble.

Another issue with planting bee balm next to cucumber is that they may have different growth rates and habits, and may need different types and amounts of fertilizers and amendments. While bee balm prefers slightly acidic soil and moderate fertilization, cucumbers may benefit from a higher pH and richer soil. Therefore, you should plan accordingly and provide the right conditions for each plant.

The Bottom Line

So, should you plant bee balm next to tomato or cucumber? The answer depends on your goals, preferences, and gardening skills. Both combinations have their pros and cons, and both can work well if you plan carefully and monitor their performance regularly. Whether you choose tomato or cucumber, or both, adding bee balm to your garden can enhance its beauty, biodiversity, and productivity, and give you a source of fresh and flavorful herbs that you can use in many ways.

Remember to plant bee balm in well-drained soil, full sun or partial shade, and water it regularly, especially during dry or hot spells. Feed it with organic matter, compost, or balanced fertilizers, and prune it as needed to keep it in shape and prevent it from taking over your garden. With some care and attention, bee balm can be a valuable asset to your garden and a source of joy and health for you and your family.