Plants need pollinators, and honeybees are among the best. Without bees you won’t be able to expect many flowers, and your vegetable patch will be barren. Whether you are undertaking a major landscaping project or preparing a kitchen garden, consider including flowers that are great at attracting honey bees.
1. Alyssum
Often referred to as sweet alyssum, this flower features a robust fragrance which makes it attractive to the honeybees. Naturalized in the US, alyssum grows well in a wide range of climates, making them great for arid regions where other flowers cannot stand the excess heat. The bright flowers present a fantastic look providing your garden with bright colors all year round. To grow correctly, the flowers require well-drained soil with moderate levels of moisture.
Plant the seeds in early spring. The seedbeds should be flat and leveled to provide adequate warmth for consistent growth. Transplantation should be done after the danger of frost has passed, and only if the seedlings have shown real leaves and soil temperature is sufficient for optimal growth conditions.
2. Agastache
Classified under the Hyssop family of herbs, Agastache is a flavorful flower commonly used in tea preparation. This striking plant does not only make delicious tea; gardeners have used it as a means to attract pollinators. The flower does well if grown in zones with cooler climates. Ensure adequate exposure to direct sun and check the soil for proper drainage.
Agastache grows up to 6 feet tall and produces showy flowers in a variety of colors. Be sure to provide adequate water for the roots to become appropriately established.
3. Asclepias
This perennial flowering plant is also referred to as milkweed because of the milky substance exuded when the plant’s cells are damaged. The Asclepias features an arrow-straight stem with funky looking oval leaves. The plant often grows in hot and dry areas. However, some species of Asclepias will grow in moist conditions. The growth conditions will depend on the species you choose. Irrespective of the species, it is essential you provide ample sunlight for the plant to thrive. The most common species do well in dry and well-drained soil. The plant does not require special fertilizers or nutrition; this makes it easy to maintain.
4. Poppies
Bees love poppies, even though they do not produce sweet nectar. Gardeners often cultivate poppies from seed and grow them in gardens for ornamental use. There are various varieties of poppies grown around the country. Some gardeners prefer breadseed poppies as they are most attractive to the honeybees.
Conclusion
To attract honey bees to your yard or garden, cultivate diverse plantings that bloom from early spring through late fall. Consider wildflowers and other native species to provide bees an excellent pollen and nectar source that will easily grow in your local area. Lastly, remember that honeybees tend to be attracted to plants with single flowers as they offer more nectar than those with double flowers.