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According to the U.S. Geological Survey, there are around 20K bee species globally, and more than 4K in the U.S. Those bees, along with other pollinator species like butterflies, hummingbirds, bats, and some fly species, are needed to sustain life and support our ecosystem. One way they can be supported is through the planting of spring flowers.

 

Unfortunately, bee populations have been declining in recent years for reasons that include tests, diseases, molds, hive losses, pesticides, climate change, air pollution, and monoculture farming (only planting one crop over a large area). Pollinators play an integral role in the world around us. Not only do many animal species depend on them because of their food sources, like nuts, berries and seeds, which require pollinators to do some heavy lifting; but honey is also consumed by many animals. They support biodiverse ecosystems, which are better able to meet the needs of many wildlife species and increase the ecosystems’ strength despite issues, like climate change. Spring flowers for pollinators are an essential garden tool to support these efforts.

In addition to that, pollinators, like bees help support the economy, with between $235 and $577 million worth of annual global food production requiring pollination (Forbes). And according to American Entomologist, “Kristen Healy, a researcher at Louisiana State University, says “about one of every three bites of food we eat relies on bees for pollination” (Schmidt 2018).”

The good news is you can help support pollinators on your property this spring by choosing the best spring flowers for bees, and other pollinators. If you’re thinking about adding native plants to your garden, it’s good to know the characteristics of a good flower that both attracts and supports pollinators.

 

What makes the best spring flowers?

Native flowers are the best spring flowers! Native plants often have co-evolved with local pollinators, making them well-suited to support the needs of these species. They are equipped to survive and thrive in both the local climate and under local soil conditions. Native plants provide a food source for bees, which they need to feed themselves and their larvae, but they also provide a place to nest.

Native flowers that have lots of pollen and nectar. The best spring flowers are those that have open shapes and easily accessible pollen, as a food source for the pollinators is essential.

Bright spring colors! Spring flowers that are hues of purple, pink, yellow, blue or white draw in pollinators better than dull or darker red flowers.

Smell those spring flowers! Scent is a strong attractant for pollinators (especially moths) so choosing flowers for your garden that have lovely fragrances is likely to result in drawing more to your garden.

 

Longevity is key. Spring flowers that bloom for an extended amount of time provide a regular food source for the pollinators, drawing and keeping them in your garden!

Ease of access. Though tubular flowers are often perfect for attracting certain bees, overall, spring flowers with easier-to-access nectar and pollen that don’t have deep crevices will allow a wider variety of pollinators to feed in your garden.

Chemical-free. Spring flowers grown without harmful pesticides are healthier for pollinators as many chemicals can harm or repel pollinators, driving their numbers down even more.

A garden full of flowers. When you plant a cluster of the same species of spring flowers together, it allows pollinators to have easier, ongoing access. Curating a diverse garden with different types of flowers, grouped in their sections, will support a wider range of pollinators.

By selecting and cultivating spring flowers that possess these characteristics, gardeners and conservationists can significantly contribute to supporting pollinator populations in their local ecosystems.

What are the best spring flowers for my garden?

Before purchasing spring flowers for your flower garden, remember to make selections that include native plants, while considering your local hardiness zone. Here are five flowers that are good for bees and other pollinators.

Lavender

 

Lavender produces A LOT of nectar, the food source for pollinators. It also has a potent but pleasant odour, that helps bees locate them. Lavender also blooms for a longer period than some plants, during the spring and summer season, giving our little pollinator friends access to a long-term food source. Just make sure you plant it somewhere that has good drainage to avoid drowning.

Sunflowers

Sunflowers produce both pollen and nectar, making them popular amongst bees, butterflies, and some birds. They are easily accessible with their large open flower heads and their bright yellow color makes them an easily spottable spring flower for pollinators. Sunflowers can be grown in many different environments and are grown globally in over 80 countries.

Coneflower (Echinacea)

 

Coneflowers are native to the eastern and central U.S. Many subspecies of this cheerful, bright perennial tend to be native to North America, making them easily growable. They produce lots of pollen and bloom from early summer through to the fall season up until frost occurs.

Bergamot (also known as Bee Balm)

Bee Balm is a plant that attracts bees, hummingbirds and butterflies due to its plentiful nectar. The tubular shape of this plant makes it especially easy to access for hummingbirds and bees. This spring flower has both aromatic foliage and flowers. It can be a little bit invasive and often grows beyond where it is planted. When planting them, keep in mind they are a full sun, or part shade plant.

 

Salvia

 

 

There are over 1000 species of Salvia worldwide. Better known as being from the sage family Lamiaceae, Salvia is a spring flower with a tubular shape, allowing easy access for pollinators to access the nectar – and it produces plenty of that. Due to there being so many varieties of this plant, it’s easy for anyone designing their garden to pick the best option for their climate and garden design.

These spring flowers are not only beautiful additions to your gardens, but are beneficial for local pollinators when grown in their native or adapted habitats.

 

Looking for more tips to invite pollinators to your spring flower garden?

 

 

Try building a shallow garden bath with pebbles. That way, bees and other pollinators can take a break and hydrate after all their hard work collecting nectar.  

It’s also a good idea to maintain bee habitats at your property. These may be in your garden or in other parts of your yard. About 30% of the bee population lives in holes inside trees or follow plant stems. Don’t be too hasty in clearing those eyesores from the yard – it might just be a bee-friendly brush!

The list above is a great place to start when shopping for the best spring flowers for pollinators for your garden. A bee friendly garden is not only good for your garden, but also good for the world! If you’re looking for other landscaping ideas for your spring flower garden, come to a nearby show and speak to a local expert about how to turn your back (or front) yard into the ultimate outdoor oasis.