Annuals for Bees: A Guide to Helping Our Pollinator Friends

When it comes to the health of our planet, there are few things more important than ensuring the well-being of our pollinators. Bees, in particular, play a critical role in the ecosystem, helping to fertilize plants that serve as food sources for countless other creatures. Unfortunately, bee populations have been declining in recent years, largely due to habitat loss and pesticide use. But there is something we can do to help: planting annuals that bees love. In this article, we'll explore some of the best annuals for bees and provide tips on how to create a bee-friendly garden.

Why Plant Annuals?

Annuals are a great choice for those looking to add some color and variety to their garden while also supporting pollinators. Unlike perennials, which come back year after year, annuals only last for one growing season. This means that you can experiment with different plants and colors each year, keeping your garden fresh and interesting. Additionally, many annuals bloom throughout the summer, providing a consistent source of nectar for bees.

15 Best Annuals for Bees

1. Sunflowers

Sunflowers are a favorite of both humans and bees alike. These cheery flowers come in a range of sizes and colors, from giant yellow blooms to smaller red and orange varieties. They're also easy to grow and attract a wide range of pollinators.

2. Zinnias

Zinnias are another easy-to-grow annual that bees love. They come in a rainbow of colors and can be planted from seed or purchased as transplants. Zinnias bloom from early summer through the first frost, providing a long-lasting source of nectar.

3. Cosmos

Cosmos are delicate, airy flowers that add a touch of elegance to any garden. Bees are drawn to their daisy-like blooms, which come in shades of pink, white, and purple.

4. Marigolds

Marigolds are known for their bright orange and yellow blooms, but they also come in shades of red and pink. These hardy plants can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions and attract both bees and butterflies.

5. Sweet Alyssum

Sweet Alyssum is a low-growing plant with tiny, fragrant blossoms that bees adore. It's often used as a ground cover or border plant and comes in shades of white, pink, and purple.

6. Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are colorful, edible flowers that have a peppery flavor. Bees are attracted to their bright orange, red, and yellow blooms, which make a beautiful addition to salads and other dishes.

7. Salvia

Salvia is a popular garden plant that comes in a wide range of colors, from deep blue to bright red. Bees love its tubular blooms, which are rich in nectar.

8. Borage

Borage is an herb that produces small, star-shaped blue flowers. Bees are drawn to its high nectar content, and the plant is also attractive to other pollinators like butterflies and hummingbirds.

9. Larkspur

Larkspur is a tall, spiky plant that comes in shades of blue, pink, and white. It's a favorite of bees and other pollinators, and its height makes it a great choice for adding vertical interest to your garden.

10. Cleome

Cleome, also known as spider flower, is a unique plant with tall stems and clusters of spidery blooms. Bees love its sweet nectar, and the plant can grow up to six feet tall in some cases.

11. Phlox

Phlox is a fragrant, colorful flower that attracts all sorts of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. It comes in shades of pink, purple, and white and blooms from mid-summer through early fall.

12. Asters

Asters are a late-season bloomer that provide a much-needed source of nectar for bees and other pollinators as the weather turns cooler. They come in shades of pink, purple, and white and are easy to grow from seed.

13. Black-eyed Susan

Black-eyed Susan is a hardy, drought-tolerant plant with bright yellow petals and a dark center. Bees love its sweet nectar, and the plant is also attractive to birds and butterflies.

14. Calendula

Calendula, also known as pot marigold, is a cheerful flower with bright orange or yellow petals. Bees are drawn to its high nectar content, and the plant has a long history of medicinal use.

15. Lantana

Lantana is a tropical plant that produces clusters of small, brightly colored flowers. It's a favorite of bees and butterflies, and the plant is also resistant to deer and other pests.

Creating a Bee-Friendly Garden

Now that you know some of the best annuals for bees, it's time to planning your bee-friendly garden. Here are some tips to get you ed:

1. Choose a sunny location

Most annuals need full sun to thrive, so choose a location in your yard that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.

2. Plant in groups

Bees are more likely to visit a plant if there are several blooms grouped together. Plant annuals in clusters of three to five for maximum impact.

3. Provide water

Bees need access to water just like any other creature. You can provide a shallow dish of water or create a small pond or birdbath in your yard.

4. Avoid pesticides

Pesticides are harmful to bees and other pollinators. Instead, opt for natural methods of pest control like companion planting and handpicking insects.

5. Consider seasonality

Choose a mix of early, mid, and late-season bloomers to ensure there's always something in your garden for bees to feed on.

Bonus: Plants to Avoid

Not all plants are created equal when it comes to supporting pollinators. Some popular garden plants, like impatiens and petunias, don't produce much nectar and aren't very attractive to bees. Others, like roses and dahlias, have been bred for showiness and often lack the traits that make them appealing to pollinators. If you're looking to support bees in your garden, avoid these plants and focus on those that are known to be bee-friendly.

FAQs About Annuals for Bees

1. When should I plant annuals for bees?

It's best to plant annuals in the spring, after the last frost has passed. This will give them plenty of time to establish before the heat of summer.

2. How often should I water my bee-friendly garden?

Most annuals need regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Aim to water your garden deeply once or twice a week rather than giving it a light sprinkle every day.

3. Can I plant annuals in containers?

Absolutely! Many annuals do well in containers, making them a great choice for apartment dwellers or those with limited space.

4. Do I need to deadhead my annuals?

Deadheading, or removing spent blooms, can help encourage your plants to produce more flowers and prolong their blooming period. It's not strictly necessary, but it can be helpful.

5. Are there any other ways I can support pollinators?

Yes! In addition to planting bee-friendly annuals, you can also create habitat for bees by providing nesting sites like bee hotels or leaving areas of your lawn unmowed to provide nesting material. You can also support local beekeepers by buying honey from them or even keeping your own bees if you have the space and resources.

By planting annuals that bees love, we can help support these important pollinators and ensure the health of our planet. Whether you're new to gardening or a seasoned pro, there are plenty of bee-friendly annuals to choose from. Just remember to plant in groups, provide water, and avoid pesticides, and you'll be well on your way to creating a beautiful, bee-friendly garden.