Honeybees have been disappearing in record numbers, and they are not the only pollinators that are imperiled. Some butterflies and native bees have experienced significant population declines also, says Eric Mäder, Assistant Pollinator Program Director for the Xerces Society.
It was just a few years ago that homeowners were asking what they could plant that would not attract bees. Now, the question is more likely to be, “How can I attract bees and other pollinators to my garden?” Pollinators are a diverse and fascinating group of invertebrates, and we have them to thank for beautiful blooming meadows, juicy summer berries, bountiful vegetable gardens, and colorful pumpkins and gourds. The Home Garden Seed Association, inspired by the conservation work of the Xerces Society, encourages all home gardeners to help the cause of pollinator protection by planting more flowers, an important food resource for all kinds of bees and butterflies. Every flower border, bed, and windowbox helps!
Looking for bee and butterfly plants to grow each season? Try these:
Early-bloomers:
Mid-season bloomers:
- Bachelor’s button
- Basil
- Black-eyed Susan
- Gaillardia
- Asclepias
- Cilantro
- Coneflower
- Foxglove
- Lavender
- Monarda
- Squash
- Thyme
Late bloomers:
This post originated from the Home Garden Seed Association.