June is National Pollinator Month, making it the perfect time to celebrate the bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other beneficial pollinators that bring life and beauty to our gardens. These hardworking creatures play a vital role in pollinating flowers, fruits, vegetables, and native plants, helping landscapes thrive throughout the growing season.
The good news is that creating a pollinator-friendly garden doesn’t require a complete landscape makeover. A few thoughtful additions can transform your yard into a welcoming habitat filled with color, movement, and life.
Why Pollinators Matter
Pollinators help plants reproduce by transferring pollen from flower to flower. Many fruits, vegetables, and flowering plants rely on pollinators to produce healthy harvests and vibrant blooms.
Beyond supporting food production, pollinators help maintain healthy ecosystems by encouraging native plant growth, which provides food and shelter for birds and wildlife.
Creating a pollinator-friendly garden is one of the easiest ways to support local biodiversity.
Plant Native Flowers
Native plants are among the best choices for attracting pollinators because they have evolved alongside local wildlife and provide reliable sources of nectar and pollen.
Popular native plant choices include:
- Milkweed
- Bee Balm
- Joe Pye Weed
- Black-Eyed Susan
- Purple Coneflower
- New England Aster
- Goldenrod
Native plants are often low-maintenance and well adapted to local growing conditions.
Add Nectar-Rich Annuals and Perennials
A mix of annuals and perennials helps provide a continuous food source throughout the growing season.
Excellent pollinator favorites include:
- Lantana
- Salvia
- Zinnias
- Cosmos
- Coreopsis
- Lavender
- Yarrow
- Shasta Daisy
Planting a variety of flower colors, shapes, and bloom times helps attract a wider range of pollinators.
Create a Water Source
Pollinators need water just like other wildlife.
Simple ways to provide water include:
- Shallow birdbaths
- Pebble-filled dishes
- Small fountains
- Water gardens
Adding stones or pebbles gives bees and butterflies a safe place to land while they drink.
Attract Hummingbirds
Hummingbirds are among the most exciting visitors to any garden.
They are especially attracted to brightly colored tubular flowers such as:
- Bee Balm
- Salvia
- Cardinal Flower
- Penstemon
- Trumpet Vine
Planting hummingbird favorites throughout your landscape can provide weeks of activity and enjoyment.
Provide Shelter and Habitat
Flowers provide food, but pollinators also need places to rest, nest, and seek protection.
Consider adding:
- Native grasses
- Flowering shrubs
- Bee houses
- Brush piles
- Naturalized garden areas
Even a small area dedicated to wildlife habitat can make a significant difference.
Plan for Season-Long Blooms
One of the best ways to support pollinators is to provide flowers from spring through fall.
Spring Bloomers
- Columbine
- Lupine
- Phlox
Summer Bloomers
- Bee Balm
- Coneflower
- Milkweed
- Salvia
Fall Bloomers
- Asters
- Goldenrod
- Sedum
Continuous blooms help ensure pollinators have access to nectar and pollen all season long.
Avoid Unnecessary Pesticide Use
Many pesticides can unintentionally harm beneficial insects.
To create a safer environment:
- Monitor plants regularly
- Use targeted treatments only when necessary
- Avoid spraying blooming plants
- Apply products early in the morning or evening
Healthy gardens often develop natural balances that reduce pest issues over time.
Pollinator Gardens Work in Any Size Space
You don’t need a large property to help pollinators. Raised beds, containers, patios, and small garden borders can all provide valuable food and habitat.
Even a few pots filled with nectar-rich flowers can attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds throughout the season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best flowers for pollinators?
Milkweed, Bee Balm, Coneflowers, Salvia, Zinnias, Lantana, and Asters are all excellent choices.
Why are native plants important?
Native plants provide food and habitat that local pollinators have depended on for generations and are often easier to maintain.
How do I attract hummingbirds?
Plant tubular flowers such as Bee Balm, Cardinal Flower, Salvia, and Penstemon.
Can I create a pollinator garden in containers?
Absolutely. Many annuals and perennials perform beautifully in containers and still provide valuable nectar sources.
Should I avoid all pesticides?
Not necessarily. The goal is to use products responsibly and only when needed to minimize impacts on beneficial insects.
Visit Marrazzo’s Garden Center
Whether you’re creating a dedicated pollinator garden or simply adding a few pollinator-friendly plants to your landscape, Marrazzo’s Garden Center has everything you need to get started. From native plants and colorful annuals to perennials and gardening supplies, our knowledgeable team is here to help.
Marrazzo’s Garden Center
591 Durham Road
Newtown, PA 18940
Phone: (215) 295-6662
Summer Hours
Monday-Saturday: 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM-5:00 PM
Visit us today and discover how easy it is to create a beautiful garden that supports bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other valuable pollinators.
