How to Grow a Pollinator Garden
A pollinator garden needs nectar-rich flowers that bloom at different times. Zinnias, cosmos, sunflowers, and wildflowers are good choices.
The goal is continuous bloom from spring to frost. Different flowers for different pollinators.
Best Flowers
| Flower | Bloom Time | Pollinators |
|---|---|---|
| Zinnia | Summer-frost | Bees, butterflies |
| Cosmos | Summer-frost | Bees, butterflies |
| Sunflower | Summer | Bees |
| Marigold | Summer-frost | Bees |
| Wildflower mix | Spring-frost | All |
| Lavender | Summer | Bees |
| Borage | Spring-fall | Bees |
Setup
- Sun: 6+ hours.
- Soil: Poor to average.
- Water: Once established, low.
- No pesticides.
- Leave some bare soil for ground-nesting bees.
Common Questions
Which flowers actually attract bees? Zinnias, cosmos, sunflowers, borage.
Do I need a big space? No. 3x3 feet works.
What about winter? Leave stems standing. Native bees overwinter in them.
Can I grow in containers? Yes. Dwarf varieties.
Do wildflower mixes work? Yes, but check what’s in them.
What about butterflies? Add host plants (dill, parsley, milkweed).