Bergamot, Wild

Climate and Soil Requirements

Climate:

• Wild Bergamot prefers temperate climates but can adapt to a range of conditions.
• It thrives in most regions of Australia if provided with adequate shade and moisture in the hottest parts of the year.

Soil:

• Prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a pH range of 6.0–7.5.
• Tolerates a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, as long as they are not waterlogged.
• Enrich the soil with organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure before planting.

Planting

When to Plant:

• In Australia, the best time to plant Wild Bergamot is in early spring or autumn when temperatures are mild.
• Avoid planting during the peak of summer, as the heat can stress young plants.
• See product description for exact guide for each climate zone

Propagation:

• Choose a sunny location with at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
• Partial shade is acceptable in hotter regions.
• Plant seeds to a depth of 3 mm
• Space plants 50 cm apart to allow for air circulation and prevent fungal diseases.
• Water gently with a mist spray after planting.

Watering and Mulching

Watering:

• Wild Bergamot prefers consistently moist soil but is moderately drought tolerant once established.
• Water deeply once or twice a week during dry spells, ensuring the soil does not dry out completely.
• Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of powdery mildew.

Mulching:

• Apply a layer of organic mulch (e.g., straw, bark, or compost) around the base of the plant to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.
• Keep the mulch a few centimetres away from the stem to prevent rot.

Fertilising

• Wild Bergamot is not a heavy feeder but benefits from an annual application of balanced, slow-release fertiliser in early spring.
• Alternatively, top-dress with compost or well-rotted manure to provide nutrients.

Pruning and Maintenance

Pruning:

• Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming and prevent self-seeding.
• Cut back the plant to about 10–15 cm above the ground in late autumn or early winter to promote healthy growth in the following season.

Disease and Pest Management:

• Wild Bergamot is susceptible to powdery mildew, especially in humid conditions. To prevent this: Ensure proper spacing for air circulation. Avoid overhead watering. Remove and dispose of affected leaves.
• Pests like aphids and spider mites may occasionally appear.
• Control them with insecticidal soap or by introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs.

Companion Planting

Echinacea:

• Both plants thrive in similar conditions and attract pollinators.
• Their complementary flower shapes and colours create a stunning display.

Rudbeckia:

• Adds bright yellow blooms that contrast beautifully with Bergamot lavender pink flowers.
• Both are drought tolerant and low maintenance.

Salvia:

• Salvias repel pests like aphids and attract beneficial insects.
• Their spiky flowers provide a nice contrast to Bergamot’s rounded blooms.

Lavender:

• Lavender’s strong scent deters pests and complements Bergamot’s fragrance.
• Both plants prefer welldraining soil and full sun.

Grasses:

• Ornamental grasses add texture and movement to the garden.
• They also provide a backdrop that highlights Bergamot flowers.

Tomatoes:

• Monarda attracts pollinators that can improve tomato yields.
• Its strong scent may also deter some tomato pests.

Nasturtiums:

• Nasturtiums act as a trap crop for aphids, protecting Monarda.
• Their vibrant flowers add colour to the garden.

Avoid Planting With:

• Avoid planting Wild Bergamot near plants that require very dry conditions, as its moisture needs may conflict.

Challenges in Australia

Heat Stress:

• In hotter regions, provide afternoon shade and ensure adequate moisture.

Invasive Potential:

• Wild Bergamot can self-seed prolifically. Deadhead flowers to prevent unwanted spread.

Humidity:

• In humid areas, monitor for powdery mildew and ensure good air circulation.