A quick reference for making your yard buzzworthy
It's important to remember that different growing zones play a role in what plants to plant and when. So be sure to check what growing zone you're in first before picking out plants. (Though, most local garden centers will only carry plants native to the local area anyway.)
Because we are located in Texas, we're going to focus on plants that do best in our fickle Texas climate.
While bees and butterflies enjoy just about every flowering plant out there, the following list a sure-fire way to really draw a great buzzing crowd. And the colors and different bloom times guarantee your yard will always look as gorgeous as it is helpful to our buzzy little friends.
Aster
Basil
Bee Balm
Black-eyed Susan
Blueberry
Butterfly bush
Catnip
Chives
Coneflower
Cosmos
Crabapple
Daisy
Geranium
Lavender
Lilac
Milkweed
Mint
Oregano
Pumpkin
Queen Anne's lace
Rosemary
Salvia
Sumac
Sunflower
Tulips
Zinnia
Some other tips:
- Add bee-friendly plants to your vegetable garden and watch how much the extra bee action will help your vegetables and fruits grow.
- Keeping a shallow water source (add some pebbles to the pan to be sure the bees can get out of the water as well!) nearby, especially in the hot summer months, helps create even more interest for worn out bees.
- Avoid pesticides and go natural. The bees, butterflies and other creatures will thank you.