The Best Flowers to Plant for Bees: A Comprehensive Guide

Bees are one of the most important pollinators in our ecosystem, responsible for pollinating about 80% of flowering plants worldwide. Unfortunately, their population has been declining in recent years due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and other factors. One way we can support bee populations is by planting the right types of flowers. In this guide, we'll explore the best flowers to plant for bees and offer tips for creating a bee-friendly garden.

The Importance of Bees in Our Ecosystem

Before we dive into the best flowers to plant for bees, let's take a moment to appreciate the important role these insects play in our ecosystem. Bees are essential pollinators, responsible for pollinating a wide variety of crops and wildflowers. Without bees, many of our favorite foods, such as apples, almonds, blueberries, and cucumbers, would not exist. Additionally, bees play a vital role in maintaining biodiversity and supporting the health of our ecosystems.

Why Do Bees Need Our Help?

Despite their importance, bee populations around the world are declining. Several factors contribute to this decline, including habitat loss, pesticide use, climate change, and disease. As more and more land is converted for agricultural or urban use, bees lose the natural habitats they rely on for nesting and foraging. Pesticides and herbicides used in agriculture and landscaping can be toxic to bees, and climate change can disrupt their natural life cycles. By planting the right types of flowers, we can help provide bees with the food and resources they need to survive.

The Best Flowers to Plant for Bees

Now that we understand the importance of bees and the challenges they face, let's explore the best flowers to plant for bees. When choosing flowers for your garden, look for plants that produce nectar and pollen and that are easy for bees to access. Here are some of the best flowers to consider:

1. Sunflowers

Sunflowers are a favorite of both bees and humans. These bright, cheerful flowers produce large amounts of nectar and pollen and are easy for bees to access. They also come in a variety of sizes, so you can choose the perfect sunflower for your garden.

2. Lavender

Lavender is not only a beautiful addition to any garden, but it also produces lots of nectar and pollen that bees love. This fragrant herb is easy to grow and attracts a wide variety of bees, including honeybees, bumblebees, and solitary bees.

3. Marigolds

Marigolds are an easy-to-grow flower that produces lots of nectar and pollen. They come in a variety of colors and sizes and are a great addition to any garden. Be sure to choose open-faced marigolds, as bees have a hard time accessing the nectar in double-flowered varieties.

4. Zinnias

Zinnias are another easy-to-grow flower that produces lots of nectar and pollen. They come in a variety of colors and sizes and are a favorite of many bee species. Be sure to deadhead your zinnias regularly to encourage more blooms.

5. Coneflowers

Coneflowers, also known as echinacea, produce lots of nectar and pollen and are a favorite of many bee species. They come in a variety of colors and sizes and are easy to grow. Be sure to choose the native species, as some cultivated varieties may be less attractive to bees.

Tips for Creating a Bee-Friendly Garden

In addition to planting the right types of flowers, there are several other things you can do to create a bee-friendly garden. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Plant in clumps

Instead of scattering individual plants throughout your garden, plant them in clumps. This makes it easier for bees to find the flowers and reduces their energy expenditure.

2. Choose native plants

Native plants are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions and are often more attractive to local bee populations. Choose plants that are native to your area whenever possible.

3. Provide water

Bees need water just like any other creature. You can provide them with a shallow dish of water or a bird bath filled with rocks for them to perch on.

4. Avoid pesticides and herbicides

Pesticides and herbicides can be toxic to bees and other pollinators. Instead, use natural pest control methods or choose plants that are resistant to pests and diseases.

5. Create nesting sites

Many bee species are solitary and nest in holes in the ground or in hollow plant stems. You can create nesting sites by leaving patches of bare ground or by drilling holes in a block of wood.


By planting the right types of flowers and following some simple tips, we can all help support bee populations and promote biodiversity in our gardens and communities. Remember to choose plants that produce lots of nectar and pollen, plant in clumps, provide water, avoid pesticides, and create nesting sites. With a little effort, we can all do our part to help protect these important pollinators.

FAQs

Q: What are some other types of flowers that bees like?

A: In addition to the flowers listed above, bees also love borage, salvia, catmint, and bee balm.

Q: Can I plant non-native flowers for bees?

A: While it's best to choose native plants whenever possible, non-native flowers can still be beneficial to bees as long as they produce lots of nectar and pollen.

Q: Do bees prefer certain colors of flowers?

A: Bees are attracted to blue, purple, and yellow flowers, but they will visit any flower that produces lots of nectar and pollen.

Q: How can I tell if a flower is good for bees?

A: Look for flowers with open faces, as bees have a hard time accessing nectar in double-flowered varieties. Also, check to see if the flower produces lots of nectar and pollen.

Q: What can I do if I don't have a lot of space for a garden?

A: Even if you don't have space for a garden, you can still plant flowers in containers on your balcony or windowsill. Choose plants that are easy to grow and produce lots of nectar and pollen.