Plants That Don't Attract Bees: A Guide for Bee-Loving Gardeners

Why Consider Plants That Don't Attract Bees?

Bees play a vital role in pollinating our gardens and crops, but for some individuals or households, bee stings can pose a significant risk. For those who are allergic to bee stings, having plants that don't attract bees can be essential to enjoying their outdoor spaces without fear. Additionally, some people may simply prefer not to have bees around, as they can be territorial and aggressive. Whatever your reason for seeking out plants that don't attract bees, this guide will provide insights into options that are both beautiful and beneficial to your garden.

Perennials

Lavender

Lavender is a popular perennial known for its pleasant fragrance and calming properties. While bees may be attracted to the plant's nectar-rich flowers, they tend to avoid it because of its strong scent. Lavender requires full sun and well-draining soil, making it an ideal choice for planting in a rock garden or along a border.

Sedum

Sedum is a drought-tolerant succulent that produces clusters of small, star-shaped flowers. These blooms are often pink or white and do not attract bees. Sedum thrives in full sun and well-draining soil, making it an excellent option for xeriscaping or adding interest to a rock garden.

Annuals

Marigolds

Marigolds are bright, cheerful annuals that come in a range of colors, including yellow, orange, and red. While their vibrant blooms may suggest otherwise, marigolds don't typically attract bees. They're easy to grow from seed and thrive in full sun with well-draining soil.

Impatiens

Impatiens are a popular choice for adding color to shady areas of the garden. Their bright blooms come in shades of pink, purple, and white, and they don't typically attract bees. Impatiens prefer moist, well-draining soil and partial shade.

Bulbs

Daffodils

Daffodils are a classic spring flower that comes in a variety of sizes and colors. These bulbs are also a great option for those seeking plants that don't attract bees. While daffodils produce nectar, their trumpet-shaped flowers make it challenging for bees to access it. Daffodils prefer full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil.

Alliums

Alliums are bold, architectural bulbs that produce globe-shaped clusters of small flowers. Their blooms are typically shades of purple or white and do not attract bees. Alliums prefer full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil.

Shrubs

Forsythia

Forsythia is a deciduous shrub that produces bright yellow flowers in early spring. While bees may be attracted to its nectar, they typically don't linger on the plant for long. Forsythia prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil.

Lilacs

Lilacs are a fragrant shrub known for their delicate, colorful blooms. While bees may visit lilac flowers, they're not particularly drawn to them. Lilacs prefer full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil.

Trees

Japanese Maple

Japanese maples are stunning trees that come in a variety of colors and shapes. While they do produce small flowers, they're not typically attractive to bees. Japanese maples prefer partial shade and well-draining soil.

Crabapple

Crabapple trees are a popular choice for adding color and interest to the landscape. Their showy blooms come in shades of pink or white and typically don't attract bees. Crabapples prefer full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil.

Climbing Plants

Clematis

Clematis is a climbing vine that produces a profusion of colorful, showy flowers. While bees may visit clematis blooms, they're not usually attracted to them. Clematis prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil.

Honeysuckle

Honeysuckle is a fragrant climbing vine that produces trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of pink, red, and yellow. While some species of honeysuckle may attract bees, there are many cultivars that do not. Honeysuckle prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil.

Ground Covers

Creeping Thyme

Creeping thyme is a low-growing ground cover that produces tiny, fragrant flowers in shades of pink and white. While bees may be attracted to its blooms, they're typically not a significant presence. Creeping thyme prefers full sun and well-draining soil.

Ajuga

Ajuga is a hardy ground cover that produces spikes of bright blue or purple flowers. These blooms do not typically attract bees. Ajuga prefers partial shade and moist, well-draining soil.

In there are plenty of options for those seeking plants that don't attract bees. From perennials to trees, climbing plants to ground covers, there's sure to be a plant that will suit your needs and preferences. By incorporating these plants into your garden, you can enjoy beautiful blooms without the worry of bee stings.

FAQs About Plants That Don't Attract Bees

1. Will planting plants that don't attract bees harm the bee population?

No, planting plants that don't attract bees will not harm the bee population. There are plenty of other food sources available for bees, and they will seek out those plants instead.

2. Are there any downsides to planting plants that don't attract bees?

One potential downside is that you may miss out on the benefits of having bees in your garden, such as increased pollination and greater biodiversity.

3. Can I still have a pollinator garden if I avoid plants that attract bees?

Yes, there are many other pollinators besides bees, such as butterflies and hummingbirds, that will benefit from a diverse range of flowering plants.

4. What should I do if I encounter a bee in my garden?

If you encounter a bee in your garden, it's best to remain calm and still. Bees are typically docile and won't sting unless threatened. If you're allergic to bee stings, make sure to carry an epinephrine auto-injector with you at all times.

5. How can I attract beneficial insects to my garden?

To attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings to your garden, incorporate plants that provide habitat and food sources for them. Examples include dill, fennel, and yarrow.