Other summers I've grown red shaggy monarda in one area which the hummingbirds love, it blooms heavily once then looks pretty bad and mildewed, and if cut back the second blooming is fairly puny and not worth much.
So this year I've pinched back the monarda in the front half of the monarda bed and am letting the back half grow and flower at its normal rate.I'm assuming the pinched back front area will bloom later thus extending the mpnarda season. And, after the taller ones in the back are finished their first bloom they'll be removed and replaced by some tall zinnias that are seedling sized now in pots awaiting their turn in the limelight. The front row though will be allowed to complete its cycle and will provide the monarda plants for next year. At least that is the plan.
