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Bees are an essential part of our ecosystem, and they play a crucial role in the pollination of plants. If you want to help bees thrive, it’s important to provide them with a source of food. In this article, we will discuss ten flowers that are especially attractive to bees.
You can make a big difference for our little buzzing friends by planting these flowers to attract bees.
Goldenrod
Goldenrod is one of the most popular flowers for bees. This plant is native to North America and Europe and is a member of the Asteraceae family. Goldenrod produces a large amount of nectar, and they are very easy to grow. If you want to attract bees to your garden, goldenrod is an excellent choice. Just make sure you plant them in full sun and well-drained sandy soil.
Bee Balm (Monarda)
It’s right there in the name – bee balm is a top choice for attracting bees into any garden. This flowering plant is easy to grow and comes in various colours, including pink, red, purple, and white. Bee balm is a member of the mint family, and it’s easy to grow. Just make sure you plant it in a sunny spot. Plus, as an added bonus, bee balm can also be used to steep a refreshing cup of herbal tea.
Lavender
Lavender (Lavandula) is another excellent choice for attracting bees to your garden. This pretty purple flower is not only beautiful, but it’s also very fragrant. Lavender blooms from late spring to early summer, and it’s a good idea to deadhead the flowers regularly to encourage more blooming. You can also use lavender oil as a natural insect repellent.
Sunflower
Ah, the cheerful sunflower (Helianthus annuus). This beloved flower is a favourite of bees and humans alike. Sunflowers are easy to grow and make a great addition to any garden. They bloom from early summer to fall, and they come in many colours, including yellow, red, and orange. Plus, you can even eat the seeds as a healthy snack.
Lupin
Lupin (Lupinus) is a beautiful flowering plant that attracts bees and other pollinators. Lupins come in many colours, including blue, purple, pink, and white. They bloom from early summer to fall. They’re easy to grow – just make sure you plant them in a sunny spot.
Peony
Peonies are beautiful flowers that come in a variety of colours, including pink, white, and red. They’re easy to plant and maintain; make sure you give them plenty of sunlight. The bulbs can dry out in transport, so it’s smart to soak them for 2 – 4 hours before planting. Peonies are a great choice for attracting bees to your garden, and they have a delightful fragrance that permeates the air.
Clover
Clover is a classic choice for attracting bees to your garden. This low-growing plant is easy to care for and provides an important nectar source for bees. Clover comes in a variety of colours, including white, pink, red, and yellow. You can often find clover growing in meadows and fields, but it’s also easy to grow in your own backyard. Just make sure you give it plenty of sunlight.
Pansy
Pansies are beautiful flowers that come in a variety of hues, including rich yellow, blue, purple, and white. They’re easy to grow – just feed and water them regularly, and don’t forget to deadhead them. Pansies bloom from early spring to late fall, and they’re especially attractive to bees. Plus, pansies are edible. So, if you’re looking for a way to attract bees and add a pop of colour to your salads, look no further than the humble pansy.
Marigold
Marigolds (Tagetes) are lovely flowers in yellow, orange, and red. They’re easy to grow for beginners and are able to tolerate even the hottest direct sun. Marigolds bloom from early summer to fall, and they’re especially attractive to bees. Plus, as a bonus, marigolds can help deter pests like aphids from your garden.
Snowdrops
Snowdrops (Galanthus) are delicate little beauties that bloom in early spring. They’re easy to grow and require very little maintenance. Snowdrops attract bees with their nectar-rich flowers, and they’re also a source of food for other pollinators like butterflies.
Now that you know which flowers bees love, you can start planning your garden accordingly. Just remember to give your plants plenty of sun (unless otherwise specified), water them regularly, and don’t forget to deadhead the blooms. With a bit of care and attention, you can create a bee-friendly oasis right in your own backyard.
Happy gardening!
Anna is the marketing and office manager for Garden Benches – a premium supplier of high-quality wooden benches and other outdoor furniture.
