Do you know how to make sure that honeybees, butterflies and other pollinating insects become frequent visitors in your garden?
First off, don’t forget the shrubs! Shrubs, often underestimated in their ability to entice beneficial pollinators, are an important element to include in your garden for a variety of reasons. Possibly most important to note is the fact that shrubs are larger than your typical flowers so they offer a larger supply of nectar and pollen. They also provide shelter for tentative pollinators and their branches are excellent ports of call for caterpillars when they are looking to build their cocoons.
Flowers are essential for your garden as well. Keep in mind that moths, wasps and other insects can help plants produce fruits and seeds by carrying pollen from flower to flower, so you also want to plant plenty of nectar-rich flowers and flowering plants.
Additionally, the color and shape of your flowers definitely come into play. There are a wide array of perennials, annuals, vines and other flowering plants that are very attractive to pollinators. When peppering your garden with these, think bright colors, like red, orange, pink and yellow. Remember that shape is important too. You want open or flat flowers which provide easy access to their pollen and nectar, enticing your pollinating friends to extend their stay.
Although there are a multitude of great choices, some of the most well-known flowers that attract pollinating insects are cone flowers and butterfly bushes. Oh, and if you need any landscaping supplies throughout your garden creation quest, Edgewater Yard Shop is always here to help!