Image Credit: vinbergv/123rf.com
As summer comes to a close, the availability of blooms that nourish pollinators like bees and butterflies begins to diminish. However, planting native late-summer flowers can provide essential nectar and habitat for these vital insects, ensuring their continued presence in gardens. Here are eight pollinator-friendly plants that can enhance gardens while supporting ecological health.
**Anise Hyssop**
This plant features tall spikes of purple flowers and emits a sweet licorice aroma, attracting a variety of native bees. Anise hyssop thrives in moist, well-drained soil and requires at least six hours of sunlight daily. It is native to the northeastern United States but adapts well to similar climates.
**Joe Pye Weed**
Known for its dense clusters of dark pink to purple flowers, Joe Pye weed is a late-summer bloomer that emits a sweet vanilla scent. This perennial prefers full sun and moist, well-drained soil. It benefits from occasional fertilization, particularly in nutrient-poor soils.
**Cardinal Flower**
With its striking red flower spikes, the cardinal flower serves as a visual highlight in any garden and provides nectar from midsummer into early fall. It thrives in moist, neutral to acidic soil and can grow in full to partial sun. Caution is advised, as this plant is toxic to humans and pets.
**Helenium**
Commonly referred to as sneezeweed, helenium offers vibrant shades of yellow, red, and orange. Pollinators are drawn to its cheerful blooms, which can be encouraged to last longer through deadheading. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
**Garden Phlox**
Available in pink, purple, and white varieties, garden phlox is reliable and low-maintenance. It attracts a diverse array of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. This plant does best in full sun with well-drained soil and requires consistent watering during dry spells.
**Goldenrod**
Often mistaken for ragweed, goldenrod is a pollinator powerhouse with its golden plumes blooming in late summer and fall. It thrives in sunny areas and well-drained soils, even if they are poor in nutrients. Over-fertilization should be avoided to prevent excessive leggy growth.
**Blazing Star**
Also known as liatris, blazing star produces vertical spikes of purple or white blooms that attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. It flourishes in full sun and well-drained soil, and careful watering is necessary to avoid fungal issues.
**New England Aster**
With rich purple, pink, or white blooms, the New England aster stands out in the fall garden. It complements goldenrod and supports various pollinators, including bees and butterflies. This plant thrives in full sun and moist, well-drained soil, making it a beautiful and beneficial addition to any landscape.
Incorporating these late-season bloomers not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of gardens but also plays a crucial role in supporting pollinator populations during a time when their food sources are limited. By creating a vibrant garden, individuals can contribute to ecological health while enjoying the beauty and activity of these essential insects.
Check out the original article here: Source link
