The Power of Pollinators: How to Attract and Support Bees in Your Garden
Gardens are more than just beautiful spaces; they are vital ecosystems that support a diverse range of life. One of the most important players in this ecosystem is the humble bee. These diligent pollinators are essential for the health of our gardens and the production of many of the fruits and vegetables we enjoy. At Planted Wellness Co., we believe in cultivating gardens that not only thrive but also support our local wildlife. Here’s how you can attract and support bees in your garden.
Why Bees Matter
Bees are responsible for pollinating about one-third of the food we eat. Without them, many plants would not be able to produce fruits and seeds. In addition to food crops, bees also pollinate wild plants, which supports biodiversity and the health of entire ecosystems. Unfortunately, bee populations are declining due to factors like habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. By creating bee-friendly gardens, we can help support these essential pollinators.
Creating a Bee-Friendly Garden
Plant Pollinator-Friendly Plants
Bees are attracted to plants that provide nectar and pollen. Some of the best plants for attracting bees include:
Borage (Borago officinalis): Also known as starflower, borage is a beautiful herb with blue, star-shaped flowers that bees adore. It’s easy to grow and adds a lovely touch to any garden.
Dill (Anethum graveolens): This aromatic herb not only attracts bees but also serves as a host plant for black swallowtail caterpillars. Dill is a great addition to vegetable gardens, especially near brassicas.
Lavender (Lavandula spp.): Lavender's fragrant purple flowers are a bee favorite. It’s also a versatile plant that can be used in cooking, crafting, and for its soothing scent.
Echinacea (Echinacea spp.): Also known as coneflowers, these hardy perennials are a bee magnet and provide beautiful, long-lasting blooms.
Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus): These towering plants provide ample pollen and nectar, making them a favorite among bees.
Anise Hyssop (Agastache foeniculum): With its tall spikes of blue-purple flowers and aromatic leaves, anise hyssop is highly attractive to bees and other pollinators. It’s also drought-tolerant and easy to grow.
Bee Balm (Monarda spp.): Known for its bright red, pink, or purple blooms, bee balm is a must-have for any pollinator garden. Its fragrant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus): These annual flowers come in a variety of colors and are known for attracting bees and other beneficial insects. They are easy to grow and provide a long blooming season.
Goldenrod (Solidago spp.): Often mistaken for a cause of allergies, goldenrod is actually a vital late-season nectar source for bees. Its bright yellow flowers are a beautiful addition to any garden.
Catmint (Nepeta spp.): This resilient perennial produces spikes of lavender-blue flowers that are irresistible to bees. It’s a great option for edging and borders.
Provide Water Sources
Bees need water to stay hydrated and to regulate the temperature of their hives. Create a bee-friendly water source by filling a shallow dish with water and adding pebbles or stones for the bees to land on. Place it in a shaded area near your flowering plants. We also like to add some rocks to our bird baths so bees have a safe way to escape if they fall in.
Avoid Pesticides
Pesticides can be harmful to bees and other beneficial insects. Opt for natural pest control methods instead. Companion planting, introducing beneficial insects, and using organic solutions can help keep your garden healthy without harming pollinators. Instead of spraying to kill mosquitoes, opt for trap systems to protect pollinators.
Create Habitat
Bees need safe places to live and nest. Leave some areas of your garden a bit wild to provide habitat for ground-nesting bees. We have a few groups of ground bees that visit our garden every spring but they only stick around for 5 weeks until they move on, so they’re really not a nuisance. Letting parts of your garden go wild and leaning into the “lazy side” of gardening, can actually be incredibly beneficial for your garden ecosystem by not disturbing nature at work. You can also install bee houses or bundles of hollow stems to attract solitary bees. Additionally, bee keeping is a great hobby to get into to learn how to support honey bee hives and make your own honey!
How Planted Wellness Co. Supports Pollinators
At Planted Wellness Co., we are committed to supporting local pollinators through education and by offering a range of pollinator-friendly plants. Besides bees, pollinators include butterflies, hummingbirds, wasps, flies, moths, and beetles. By choosing plants that support these insects, you can create a garden that is not only beautiful but also beneficial for the environment and our pollinator friends. We love answering questions you may have on what pollinator friendly plants you should add to your garden. We also equip you with planting guides for each plant you purchase so you know exactly how to plant and grow it, helping it thrive for your garden and provide a sanctuary for pollinators.
Join the Pollinator Movement
By making small changes in your gardening practices, you can make a big difference for bees and other pollinators. Visit our online shop to explore our selection of pollinator-friendly plants and follow us on Instagram for more gardening tips and inspiration. Together, we can create a thriving environment for bees and ensure the health of our gardens and local ecosystems.
