Herbs that Attract Butterflies, Bees, and Hummingbirds
When it comes to vegetable and fruit production pollinating insects are the very lifeblood of the garden. For the majority of food plants they're 100% necessary, so it's important to make pollinators at home in the garden and encourage them to stay.
This is yet another reason that my heart belongs to herbs -- they're incredible performers on so many levels. In the kitchen as food, seasonings, and garnishes. They're found in everyday beauty products and their natural health benefits have been proven time and time again.
As if all of those things weren't enough, many herbs produce flowers that are completely irresistible to pollinating insects, as well as an unlimited number of wildlife species including native bee species, honey bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Complement your vegetable garden some polliantor-seducing herbs.
Herbs That Attract Butterflies
Butterflies are the happiest in sipping on flowers planted in areas with good sun and little or no wind.
- Chives
- Thyme
- Marjoram
- Catmint
- Mint
- Chives
- Yarrow
- Parsley
Herbs That Attract Bees
Bees prefer single-petaled flowers as they make it easier to get to sweet nectar. Try planting:
- Basil
- Lemon balm
- Lavender
- Anise hyssop
- Hyssop
- Borage
- Germander
- Sage
- Savory
- Chamomile
- Rosemary
- Dill
- Betony
- Lamb's ears
- Thyme
- Dandelion
Herbs That Attract Hummingbirds
Hummingbirds are pollinators, too! Tubular blossoms are the main course for hummers. Plant herbs such as:
- Bee balm
- Lavender
- Pineapple sage
- Hyssop
- Mint
- Rosemary
- Catnip
- Comfrey
- Mallow
- Globe Thistle
Don't forget to place a shallow bowl or saucer of water in your garden for hard-working pollinators!
*Quick Note: If you're interested in attracting pollinating insects, you'll have to sacrifice a few leaves (sometimes whole plants) to desirable caterpillars. After all they're juvenile pollinators. So always identify the caterpillars in your garden before you eliminate them.
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