A Butterfly and Bee Gardener's Dream: Flowers for a Thriving Garden

Have you ever considered what flowers to plant in your garden to attract butterflies and bees? As an experienced butterfly and bee gardener, I have learned firsthand the importance of creating a garden that supports these incredible pollinators. Here, I will share my favorite flowers and why they are essential in any garden.

Favorite Flowers for Butterfly and Bee Lovers

My garden is filled with a variety of plants that cater to the needs of butterflies and bees. Here are some of my top picks:

Milkweed

Milkweed is a crucial plant for monarch caterpillars to eat. Not only does it provide a vital food source, but it also offers beautiful flowers that attract a wide range of pollinators. By planting milkweed, you can support the life cycle of these stunning butterflies.

Zinnias and Tithonia/Mexican Sunflower

Both zinnias and Tithonia provide a continuous supply of blooms from summer to fall. These plants are incredibly easy to grow from seeds and make excellent additions to any garden. Their vibrant colors and long blooming periods create a lively and attractive environment for bees and butterflies.

Mistflower and Goldenrod

Mistflower and goldenrod are absolute favorites among pollinators. Both plants bloom in fall and provide a much-needed food source as the season winds down. Planting these flowers ensures that your garden remains a hive of activity until the last days of autumn.

Salvia and Veronica

Salvia and veronica produce beautiful purple spikes that are highly attractive to bees. These flowers not only add beauty to your garden but also support the health of your local bee population.

Chives, Dill, and Borage

While some of my favorite plants are herbs, I make sure to include chives, dill, and borage in my garden. Chives are among the first flowers to bloom in spring and provide nectar for a myriad of pollinators. Dill is a favorite of black swallowtail caterpillars, and borage, with its bright blue flowers, is a must-have for bees.

Seasonal Cuts for Beautiful Arrangements

Another focus of my garden is seasonal cut flowers. To ensure a constant supply of fresh blooms, I grow a variety of plants, including bellflowers and Shasta daisies. Bellflowers come in both blue and white varieties, and their long blooming season adds color and beauty to my garden. Shasta daisies provide a burst of white blooms that contrast beautifully with the purples and whites of the bellflowers.

I also grow nasturtiums, which add a splash of color and interest to my garden. Nasturtiums are annuals that I sow from seed every year. Their bright and sunny hues make a striking contrast to the muted tones of the bellflowers.

Herbaceous Perennials for Continuous Blooming

In addition to seasonal cuts, I ensure a continuous supply of blooms by planting herbaceous perennials. These plants not only live for many years but also provide a succession of flowers. While their blooms don't last as long as those of annuals, they add color and beauty throughout the season.

A Personal Touch to the Garden

Apart from the plants, I allow my wife to choose the flowers added to our cutting garden. My rule is simple: she picks the flowers, and I plant them. This ensures that the garden reflects her preferences and creativity.

Whether you are a seasoned gardener or new to the hobby, incorporating these flowers into your garden will undoubtedly attract and support a variety of pollinators. By doing so, you not only enrich your garden but also contribute to the health of our environment. Happy gardening!