Why pollinators matter
Bees, butterflies, hoverflies and other pollinating insects play an essential role in gardens by helping flowers, fruit and vegetables reproduce successfully.
Even small gardens can provide valuable food and shelter for pollinators by including nectar-rich plants and avoiding unnecessary pesticide use.
Plants loved by pollinators
- Lavender
- Salvia
- Verbena bonariensis
- Nepeta (catmint)
- Echinacea
- Foxgloves
- Sedum / Hylotelephium
- Single-flowered dahlias
- Alliums
- Scabious
- Hardy geraniums
- Borage
Simple ways to help pollinators
- Choose single flowers where insects can easily reach pollen and nectar.
- Grow plants that flower across different seasons to provide food for longer.
- Avoid using pesticides wherever possible, especially on flowering plants.
- Leave some areas of the garden slightly wild to provide shelter and nesting places.
- Add a shallow dish of water with pebbles for insects to drink safely.
- Allow some plants to flower before deadheading or cutting back.
