The Best Bedding Plants for Bees

Why Are Bees Important?

Bees play an important role in pollinating plants, which helps produce fruits, vegetables, and nuts. They also help sustain our ecosystems by transferring pollen from one flower to another, allowing plants to reproduce. Unfortunately, bee populations have been declining in recent years due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and disease. Planting the right flowers can help support their survival.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Bedding Plants for Bees

When selecting bedding plants for bees, it's important to choose varieties that provide plenty of nectar and pollen. Bees need both to live, and different species of bees may be attracted to different types of flowers. Additionally, it's important to choose plants that will bloom throughout the growing season.

15 Best Bedding Plants for Bees

1. Sunflowers

Sunflowers are a great option for bees because they produce large amounts of pollen and nectar. They're also easy to grow and come in a variety of sizes and colors.

2. Lavender

Lavender is a popular choice for bees because it produces fragrant flowers that are rich in nectar. It's also a great addition to any garden because it repels pests like mosquitoes and moths.

3. Marigolds

Marigolds are a great option for attracting bees to your garden because they produce large amounts of nectar and are easy to grow. They come in a variety of colors, including orange, yellow, and red.

4. Cosmos

Cosmos are an excellent choice for bees because they produce large amounts of nectar and pollen. They're also easy to grow and come in a range of colors.

5. Zinnias

Zinnias are another great option for attracting bees to your garden. They produce large amounts of nectar and pollen and come in a variety of colors, including pink, red, and orange.

6. Coneflowers

Coneflowers are a popular choice for attracting bees to your garden. They produce lots of nectar and pollen and come in a range of colors, including pink, purple, and white.

7. Bee Balm

Bee balm is a great option for attracting bees to your garden because it produces large amounts of nectar and pollen. It's also a beautiful addition to any garden, with its bright pink or red flowers.

8. Salvia

Salvia is another great option for bees because it produces lots of nectar and pollen. It comes in a range of colors, including blue, purple, and red.

9. Black-Eyed Susans

Black-eyed susans are a favorite of bees because they produce large amounts of nectar and pollen. They're also easy to grow and come in a variety of colors, including yellow and orange.

10. Phlox

Phlox is a popular choice for attracting bees to your garden. They produce lots of nectar and pollen and come in a range of colors, including pink, purple, and white.

11. Asters

Asters are a great option for bees because they produce large amounts of nectar and pollen. They come in a range of colors, including pink, purple, and white.

12. Honeysuckle

Honeysuckle is a great option for attracting bees to your garden because it produces large amounts of nectar. It's also a beautiful addition to any garden, with its fragrant flowers.

13. Sage

Sage is a popular choice for bees because it produces lots of nectar and pollen. It comes in a range of colors, including blue and purple.

14. Snapdragons

Snapdragons are another great option for attracting bees to your garden. They produce lots of nectar and pollen and come in a variety of colors, including pink, red, and yellow.

15. Sweet Alyssum

Sweet alyssum is a great option for bees because it produces large amounts of nectar. It's also a great addition to any garden because it has a pleasant fragrance.

FAQs About Bedding Plants for Bees

1. What are some other ways I can support bee populations?

In addition to planting the right flowers, you can also support bee populations by avoiding the use of pesticides, providing nesting habitats, and supporting local beekeepers.

2. Can I plant these flowers in pots or containers?

Yes! Many of these flowers can be planted in pots or containers as long as they have adequate drainage.

3. How often should I water my bedding plants?

It depends on the type of plant and your climate. In general, most bedding plants should be watered deeply once a week.

4. How do I know if my plants are getting enough sun?

Most bedding plants require at least six hours of sunlight a day. If your plants are not getting enough sun, they may become leggy or fail to bloom.

5. Can I plant these flowers in the fall?

Some of these flowers can be planted in the fall, while others need to be planted in the spring. Be sure to check the planting instructions for each type of flower.

Planting the right bedding plants is an easy way to support bee populations and help sustain our ecosystems. By choosing varieties that produce plenty of nectar and pollen and bloom throughout the growing season, you can create a beautiful garden that will attract bees and other pollinators. Happy planting!