Written By Creating a pollinator-friendly garden is a great way to support the local ecosystem and help protect the environment. Pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds play a crucial role in the reproduction of many plants, and their populations have been declining in recent years due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and other factors. By planting a variety of flowers, shrubs, and trees that attract pollinators, you can help provide them with the food and shelter they need to thrive. Here are 10 must-have plants for a pollinator-friendly garden:
1. Bee Balm (Monarda didyma) – This native plant produces showy clusters of red, pink, or purple flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. It prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil.
2. Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa) – This bright orange perennial is a favorite of monarch butterflies, which lay their eggs on the leaves and feed on the nectar. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
3. Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) – This popular garden plant produces large, daisy-like flowers in shades of pink, purple, and white that attract bees and butterflies. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
4. Goldenrod (Solidago spp.) – This native plant produces clusters of bright yellow flowers that attract bees and butterflies. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
5. Joe-Pye Weed (Eutrochium purpureum) – This tall, native plant produces clusters of pink or purple flowers that attract bees and butterflies. It prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil.
6. Lavender (Lavandula spp.) – This fragrant herb produces spikes of purple or blue flowers that attract bees and butterflies. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
7. Milkweed (Asclepias spp.) – This native plant is essential for the survival of monarch butterflies, which lay their eggs on the leaves and feed on the nectar. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
8. Penstemon (Penstemon spp.) – This native plant produces tubular flowers in shades of pink, purple, and red that attract bees and hummingbirds. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
9. Salvia (Salvia spp.) – This popular garden plant produces spikes of blue, purple, or red flowers that attract bees and hummingbirds. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
10. Sunflower (Helianthus spp.) – This cheerful plant produces large, yellow flowers that attract bees and butterflies. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
By incorporating these 10 must-have plants into your garden, you can create a beautiful and functional space that supports pollinators and helps protect the environment. Remember to avoid using pesticides and herbicides, which can harm pollinators and other beneficial insects. With a little effort, you can make a big difference in the health and well-being of your local ecosystem.
