June is National Pollinator Month
Jill’s front yard pollinator garden with Mystic Spires and Rudbeckia
Did you know that June is National Pollinator Month? The Garden Girls are obsessed with adding pollinator plants to raised beds and in ground gardens. Pollinators are vital to gardens and the world’s food source. Here is why we should add plants that attract pollinators and our favorite ones to include.
Why Add Plants that Attract Pollinators to our Garden?
Pollinators are insects that transfer pollen from one plant to another plant. Common pollinators are bees, wasps, birds, butterflies and moths. The transfer of pollen is vital for plants production of fruit and veggies. According to National Today, almost 75% of the world’s food sources are dependent on pollination. By planting pollinator gardens, we are helping put food on our table. Plus, pollinator gardens bring such beautiful color to a space and who doesn’t love to see a bee or butterfly working to get nectar.
Three Favorite Pollinator Plants to Put in a Sunny Spot
African Blue Basil
African Blue Basil
This rapidly growing, heat loving plant is perfect in a container of its own or on the edge of a raised bed garden. Its showy leaves and purple flowers will easily attract the bees. We plant this more for its flowers than its flavor. Don’t be afraid to trim it as it will round out as it grows and take-up lots of space in your raised bed garden.
Mystic Spires Salvia
A favorite perennial that produces consistent vibrant blue flowers. This plant will have the bees and butterflies buzzing through your garden. Mystic Spires performs well in the ground and we love this salvia because it goes beautifully with almost any other plant you have in your landscaping. It performs well in the heat and is relatively compact compared to other salvias.
Rudbeckia (Black-eyed Susan)
This bright yellow daisy-like flower with a dark center blooms summer through fall. It attracts butterflies and the birds eat the seeds. It makes a great cut-flower and is a native to Houston. And, your neighbors will be sure to be jealous when they see these blooming in your garden.
Steel Raised Bed with Rudbeckia
A Favorite Pollinator for a Shady Spot
Turk’s Cap
Turk’s Cap is the perfect pollinator for a shady spot and produces a profusion of little red flowers. It is bush like and will grow as high as it does broad. It is an excellent source of nectar for hummingbirds.
Consider Adding Plants that Attract Pollinators
The Garden Girls are on a mission to educate others about the importance of pollinator gardens. We would love to design and install a kitchen and pollinator garden for your outdoor space.
