Best Plants for Pollinators in High Summer
High summer is a crucial time to keep your garden buzzing with bees and butterflies, and lavender, verbena, and echinacea are perfect for the job.
As June and July roll around, the garden can feel a little less lively. Many spring blooms have finished their show, leaving gaps that can be filled beautifully with pollinator-friendly plants. Ensuring your garden remains a haven for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators not only benefits the wildlife but gives you a dazzling display of colour and fragrance. Let's dive into the best plants for high summer to keep the nectar flowing.
Lavender: A Fragrant Favourite
Lavender is more than just a pretty face; it's a powerhouse for attracting pollinators. Its vibrant violet petals and heady scent are irresistible to bees, making it a must-have in any pollinator garden. Varieties like Hidcote Lavender and Munstead Lavender are particularly popular in the UK. These compact plants are perfect for borders or pots, and they thrive in sunny spots with well-drained soil. Not only do they offer nectar and pollen, but they also bring a touch of Provence to your garden.
Verbena: The Long-Lasting Bloomer
If you're looking for a plant that provides months of nectar, verbena is a top contender. Verbena Bonariensis is especially beloved by butterflies, with its tall, airy stems and clusters of small purple flowers. It blooms from summer into autumn, ensuring a long-lasting food source for pollinators. Verbena is easy to grow and adds height and structure to your planting schemes, making it an excellent choice for mixed borders.
Echinacea: The Sturdy Coneflower
Echinacea, or coneflower, is another fantastic option for attracting pollinators during the summer months. Its open, daisy-like flowers are perfect for short-tongued bees, and they come in a range of colours from classic pink to vibrant orange. Echinacea is hardy and drought-tolerant, making it a reliable choice for UK gardens. These plants are not only adored by bees and butterflies but also bring a touch of the prairie to your garden design.
Creating a Pollinator Paradise
When planning your high summer garden, consider the needs of different pollinators. Bees are drawn to the bright petals and sweet scents of lavender and verbena, while echinacea's open flowers cater to a variety of winged visitors. A diverse selection of plants ensures that your garden can support a broad range of pollinator species, which in turn helps maintain a healthy ecosystem.
It's also worth noting the benefits of container gardening with these plants. Varieties such as lavender and echinacea thrive in pots, providing a mobile feast for pollinators even in the smallest of spaces. This flexibility makes it easy to create a pollinator-friendly garden on balconies or patios.
To make the most of your garden's potential, take a moment to compare the different varieties and prices available. On ComparePlants, you can explore a range of lavender, verbena, and echinacea options, ensuring you find the perfect plants to suit your garden and budget.
By choosing the right plants for high summer, you'll not only enjoy a vibrant and lively garden but also play a crucial role in supporting the UK's pollinator populations. It's a win-win for gardeners and wildlife alike.