10 best plants for bees
Looking upon rows of gorgeous flowers is one of life’s pleasures, especially if they’re just a glance away in your garden. But there’s so much more to plants than their beauty alone.
Our gardens are extremely important for bees and other pollinators, providing them with the nectar and pollen they need to thrive. And it’s through pollination that the next generation of beautiful flowers are born, along with vegetables and fruit that we eat.
By growing a mix of flowering plants in our gardens, we can create a haven for all those gorgeous butterflies, bees, and other pollinating species.
1. Lavender
With its famous rich scent and distinct purple hues, Lavender is the perfect all-rounder that fits in every garden.
When to plant: April to May
Where to plant: A sunny, open spot with fast-draining soil
How to get it growing: After planting, water regularly, especially in dry weather, for the first season
2. Dahlias
The shining light of summer, Dahlias come in all shades of the rainbow, from bright to pastel, so you’ll always find the perfect one for your space.
When to plant: Late May to June, after the last frost
Where to plant: A partially shaded sheltered spot with fast-draining soil
How to get it growing: Once a fortnight, feed your dahlias with a high potash feed
3. Fuchsias
Whether they’re trailing from hanging baskets, climbing up trellis, or standing proud in pots, Fuchsias add striking hot pink pendant petals that flower all summer long.
When to plant: Late May to June, after the last frost
Where to plant: A sunny but sheltered spot with fast-draining soil
How to get it growing: Once it starts to flower water once a week, especially during dry periods
4. Cape daisies
While their petals are reminiscent of the common daisy, the vibrant colouring of the Cape Daisy sets them apart from the crowd.
When to plant: May to June
Where to plant: A sunny but well sheltered spot with fast-draining soil
How to get it growing: Watering is not necessary, except during intense dry periods
5. Marguerite's
These delicately shaped flowers sit perfectly in any bed or border, with soft shades of pink and white, Marguerites will brighten up any garden.
When to plant: March to May
Where to plant: A sunny spot with fast-draining soil
How to get it growing: Water it well until it’s established
6. Buddleia
Look no further than Buddleia for a stunning flowering shrub that acts as a magnet for beautiful butterflies.
When to plant: May to September
Where to plant: A sunny spot with fast-draining soil
How to get it growing: A high potash feed in spring will boost the flowering potential of your buddleia, but keep deadheading for a long-lasting flowering period
7. Verbena
With small, delicate clusters of alluring flowers Verbena has a long flowering season that’ll keep you in colour through to November.
When to plant: April to May
Where to plant: A sunny but sheltered spot with fast-draining soil
How to get it growing: While the verbena flower is drought resistant, the blooms are improved with regular watering
8. Salvia love and wishes
Aromatic foliage and rich dark pink flowers and magenta stems are the calling cards of Salvia love and wishes, a striking addition to every garden.
When to plant: May to June
Where to plant: A sunny, open spot with fast-draining soil
How to get it growing: Regular deadheading will see the summer blooms continue well into autumn
9. Cosmos
Cosmos come in an array of dazzling colours, they’re easy to grow, and quickly spring into flower.
When to plant: Late May to June, after the last frost
Where to plant: A sunny, open spot with fast-draining soil
How to get it growing: Water regularly, but make sure you don’t over-water them
10. Snapdragons
Uniquely shaped with tall bunches of bright petals, Snapdragons are a firm favourite for beds and borders.
When to plant: Late May to June, after the last frost
Where to plant: A sunny, open spot with fast-draining soil
How to get it growing: Keep them well watered and support taller varieties with canes