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plants for pollinators
PLANTS FOR
POLLINATORS
At a time when pollinators are struggling, it can be beneficial for the
environment to grow species that will provide butterflies and bees
some much needed support. As a bonus, many plants attractive
to pollinators are also beneficial for people.
by Barbara H. Shaw
W
hen we think pollination, most of us picture honeybees buzzing
around a blossom. Few imagine lemurs and monkeys high in the
jungle canopy, bats and moths in the silver moonlight, hummingbirds
swooping in to hover and suck, butterflies and small flies in the heat
of noon, or wasps, beetles, and possums at all hours. Nature’s need
for pollination has led to thousands of unique relationships between
plants and animals.
BRING IN THE BUTTERFLIES
Nearly everywhere, gardeners enjoy attracting beautiful butterflies.
Butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa) draws them in with bunches of
slender, cone-like flowers. The butterfly bush (Buddleja davidii), with
its fragrant, elongated flower clusters of pink, lavender, white, or
purple, is invasive but has become common in many areas.
Among the most attractive flowers to butterflies are sedums
like autumn joy (Sedum telephium ‘autumn joy’), red valerian
(Centranthus ruber), and knapweed (Centaurea sp.), a relative
of thistles. Most vervains, such as Verbena bonariensis with its
multiple purple flowers on stiff, wiry stems, are extremely rich
in nectar. Wild marjoram (Origanum vulgare), like many of the
herbs, thrives in Mediterranean climates. The delicate, pink
flowers are a treat for butterflies as well as bees. Plus, the
leaves make a delicious addition to many dishes.
Plant some food plants for caterpillars too. Hops, holly,
and meadow grasses feed the hungry young of many
butterfly species, while crucifers like broccoli and
mustards nourish caterpillars of white cabbage butter-
flies (Pieris brassicae).
BUSY BEES ARE BEST
Hundreds of species of wild bees and bumblebees
contribute to pollination, but let’s focus on honey-
bees. Offering lots of flowers they like draws bees
to your plants. It’s a surefire way to assure that fruit
trees, berries, cash crops, and your veggie garden
can all reach their goals of maximum growth and
productivity. Plus, a bountiful harvest of honey
never made anyone mad.
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grow cycle