The global decline in bee populations challenges ecosystems and food security, requiring the selection of floral resources that provide high-quality nutrition throughout the foraging season. By understanding the specific biological needs of bees, gardeners can create habitats that effectively sustain both managed honeybees and diverse native bee species. The goal is to maximize the availability of nectar, which is the bee’s primary energy source, and pollen, which supplies the necessary proteins, lipids, and vitamins for larval development.
Essential Flower Characteristics for Pollinators
Bees possess a unique visual and physical understanding of flowers, favoring traits that maximize their foraging efficiency. Their vision is shifted toward the ultraviolet (UV) spectrum, making them highly attracted to blooms in shades of blue, purple, and yellow. Many flowers feature UV patterns, known as nectar guides, which are invisible to the human eye but function like a bullseye to direct bees straight to the reward.
The physical structure of a flower is another significant factor in bee preference. Bees generally favor single-petaled, open-faced blooms that provide a large, easily accessible landing platform. Flowers with a simplistic, open structure allow them to quickly access the pollen-bearing anthers and the nectar at the base. Conversely, highly hybridized ornamental flowers, particularly those with dense, double-petal arrangements, often obstruct access to the pollen and nectar rewards.
The nutritional density of the forage is paramount, especially the quality of the pollen. Pollen is the sole source of protein for developing larvae, and its composition can vary widely between plant species. While nectar primarily serves as a carbohydrate-rich energy boost, pollen must contain the correct balance of amino acids and lipids to support colony health.
Recommended Pollinator Plants by Category
Selecting a diverse range of plant types ensures that different species of bees, which have varying tongue lengths and foraging behaviors, can find suitable forage. Native plants are highly recommended because they are genetically adapted to local climates and co-evolved with native bee species. Grouping plants by type helps structure the garden to provide a layered, resource-rich habitat.
Annuals, which complete their life cycle in a single season, are excellent for providing long-lasting, abundant nectar and pollen. Open-pollinated sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) are a powerhouse, providing copious amounts of protein-rich pollen. Cosmos and single-flowered zinnias are also highly valued, as they offer continuous bloom with open structures that are easily worked by a wide variety of bees until the first frost.
Perennials and herbs form the backbone of a stable bee garden, returning year after year with dependable resources. Lavender (Lavandula) is a magnet for multiple bee species due to its fragrant, nectar-rich flowers in preferred blue and purple hues. Bee Balm (Monarda) features tubular flowers that are particularly favored by long-tongued bumblebees, providing a steady supply of nectar throughout the summer. Borage (Borago officinalis) is an annual herb known for its star-shaped blue flowers and its ability to produce nectar almost continuously, making it a reliable resource.
Shrubs and trees offer an immense volume of forage with a small footprint and are especially important in the early spring. Willows (Salix spp.) are among the first plants to bloom and are crucial for providing early-season pollen and nectar, which fuels queen bees emerging from hibernation. Flowering fruit trees, such as cherry, apple, and plum, offer a brief but intense burst of forage that is indispensable for hive build-up. Highbush blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum) are a valuable early source, and while their flowers are less attractive to honeybees than other options, bumblebees are highly efficient at pollinating them.
Creating a Continuous Bloom Cycle
Sustained resource availability is paramount for bee survival, requiring a garden plan that offers blooms from the first warm days of spring through the last days of fall. An inconsistent food supply can severely weaken colonies, making them more vulnerable to disease and parasites. The foraging season begins with early-season blooms that provide the first food for emerging queen bees and honeybee colonies breaking cluster.
Early spring resources often include pussy willow and crocus, which supply foundational pollen and nectar when little else is available. The bulk of the garden should be dedicated to mid-season staples, like the salvias, monarda, and echinacea, which ensure a steady flow of resources during the peak breeding period. This continuous middle phase maintains colony growth and health.
The late season is important, as bees require a final surge of resources to prepare for winter survival. Fall-blooming plants, such as native asters and goldenrod (Solidago spp.), are essential for bees to build up their final winter stores of honey and bee bread. Planting these late-blooming species supports the long-term health and overwintering success of local bee populations.