22 Gorgeous Flowering Plants that Will Attract Bees
Create a buzz with these blooming beauties.
It's that time of the year when you're prepping, planning, and eventually planting your flower beds. It's likely you'll spend much of this time focused on what flowers want to have in your garden, the easiest flowers to grow, and the color palette of the best annuals that will compliment your home’s exterior house paint color. Another important topic to consider is how to create a space that attracts bees and other garden-friendly pollinators. After all, not only are they crucial to the health of the planet and survival of mankind, but bees pollinate plants, including fruit trees, vegetables, and other ornamental plants. In fact, it’s estimated that honeybees pollinate 75 to 85 percent of all food crops. (There’s a term “busy bee” for a reason!)
Overall, it’s in our best interest to create bee haven and destinations around our homes with plenty of flowering plants and healthy nectar for them to eat. Bees are particularly attracted to bee balm, echinacea, snapdragon, and hostas, as well as a number of other wildflowers like California poppies and evening primrose. Fun fact: Did you know that bees have excellent color vision? For this reason, they flock to yellow, purple, blue, and white flowers. It’s best to avoid eucalyptus, ferns, and lemongrass, and skip toxic pesticides and herbicides that can be harmful to bees. Instead, choose bee-friendly organic fertilizers for your garden spaces.
Check out this list of 22 flowers that attract bees for a pretty, healthy, and bee-friendly garden.
Take a look at a few more helpful links to get your garden tools, potted plants, garden beds, and vegetable options organized for the next gardening season!
• Editors' Picks: Our Backyard and Garden Must-Haves
• 20 Favorite Container Plants and Ideas for Your Potted Garden Oasis
• 15 Best Raised Garden Beds of 2023 for Any Outdoor Space
• 11 Things Beginners Should Know Before Starting a Vegetable Garden
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