Guide to Flowers That Are Super Pollinators
Pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other insects, play a crucial role in maintaining healthy ecosystems and supporting food production. By planting flowers that are known as "super pollinators," you can attract and support these vital creatures. These flowers are particularly rich in nectar and pollen, making them highly attractive to pollinators. Below is a florist guide to some of the best super pollinator flowers, organized by their benefits and growing conditions.
Top Super Pollinator Flowers
1. Lavender (Lavandula spp.)
- Why it’s great: Lavender is a favorite of bees and butterflies due to its abundant nectar and long blooming season.
- Growing tips: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Drought-tolerant once established.
- Best for: Bees, butterflies.
2. Sunflower (Helianthus annuus)
- Why it’s great: Sunflowers produce large amounts of pollen and nectar, attracting bees, butterflies, and birds.
- Growing tips: Thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Easy to grow from seed.
- Best for: Bees, butterflies, birds.
3. Coneflower (Echinacea spp.)
- Why it’s great: Coneflowers are a magnet for bees, butterflies, and even hummingbirds. Their daisy-like shape makes it easy for pollinators to access nectar.
- Growing tips: Prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Drought-tolerant.
- Best for: Bees, butterflies, hummingbirds.
4. Bee Balm (Monarda spp.)
- Why it’s great: Bee balm is a powerhouse for attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Its tubular flowers are perfect for long-tongued pollinators.
- Growing tips: Grows best in full sun to partial shade and moist soil.
- Best for: Bees, butterflies, hummingbirds.
5. Goldenrod (Solidago spp.)
- Why it’s great: Goldenrod is a late-season bloomer that provides nectar and pollen when other flowers are fading. It supports bees, butterflies, and beetles.
- Growing tips: Thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Tolerates poor soil conditions.
- Best for: Bees, butterflies, beetles.
6. Zinnia (Zinnia spp.)
- Why it’s great: Zinnias are easy to grow and bloom profusely, attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds with their bright colors.
- Growing tips: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Deadhead regularly to encourage continuous blooms.
- Best for: Bees, butterflies, hummingbirds.
7. Milkweed (Asclepias spp.)
- Why it’s great: Milkweed is essential for monarch butterflies, as it is the only plant they lay their eggs on. It also attracts other pollinators.
- Growing tips: Grows in full sun and well-drained soil. Tolerates poor soil.
- Best for: Monarch butterflies, bees.
8. Borage (Borago officinalis)
- Why it’s great: Borage is a prolific nectar producer, attracting bees and other pollinators. Its blue star-shaped flowers are highly visible.
- Growing tips: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Self-seeds easily.
- Best for: Bees.
9. Cosmos (Cosmos spp.)
- Why it’s great: Cosmos are easy to grow and provide nectar for bees and butterflies throughout the summer.
- Growing tips: Thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Drought-tolerant.
- Best for: Bees, butterflies.
10. Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia spp.)
- Why it’s great: These cheerful flowers are a favorite of bees and butterflies. They bloom for a long time and are low-maintenance.
- Growing tips: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Tolerates drought.
- Best for: Bees, butterflies.
Tips for Creating a Pollinator-Friendly Garden
1. Plant in Clusters: Grouping the same type of flower together makes it easier for pollinators to find and access them.
2. Choose Native Plants: Native flowers are well-adapted to your region and are more likely to attract local pollinators.
3. Provide Continuous Blooms: Plant flowers that bloom at different times of the year to ensure a steady food supply for pollinators.
4. Avoid Pesticides: Chemicals can harm pollinators. Opt for organic gardening practices.
5. Include a Water Source: A shallow dish of water with stones for perching can help pollinators stay hydrated.
6. Leave Some Wild Areas: Allow parts of your garden to grow naturally, providing habitat for pollinators.
Seasonal Super Pollinators
- Spring: Crocus, Lupine, Wild Geranium
- Summer: Lavender, Sunflower, Bee Balm
- Fall: Goldenrod, Aster, Sedum
By planting these super pollinator flowers and following the tips above, you can create a vibrant, pollinator-friendly garden that supports biodiversity and helps sustain these essential creatures. Happy gardening!
