GYG-065 How to Attract Pollinators

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In this weeks episode, I’ll discuss the importance of pollinators to your garden.

But First I wanted to talk about a couple of important items.

I recently read a fascinating book called “Founding Gardeners” by Andrea Wolf

The book talks a little of the history of gardening in the early days of the United States and the effect it had on many of our founding fathers.  In addition to gardens here in the US, she even points out how some of the gardens in England affected not only the way they gardened, but many of their opinions.  Very interesting historical book for those who would like a break from the usual gardening book.  You can find a link to the book on the right side of the page if yoou might be interested.

I also want to remind everyone that there is now a gardening resource page on the web site at http://borntofarm.com/gardening-resources/

Currently it is mostly Seed suppliers, but I want to expand it to cover all sort of gardening suppliers, recommended by listeners like you.

I am especially interested in recommendations for suppliers outside the continental United States.  It has become increasingly difficult to ship seeds and products across countries, so it makes even more sense to support your local suppliers.   If you have a recommendation for a supplier to include, please email me at feedback@growingyourgrub.com  or please feel free to comment below.

ATTRACTING POLLINATORS TO THE GARDEN

Bee Favorites

• Alyssum
• Anise hyssop (Agastache foeniculum)
• Annual poppies (Papaver)
• Asters
• Bee balm (Monarda)
• Black-eyed Susans (Rudbeckia)
• Butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa)
• Clover (Trifolium)
• Coneflower (Echinacea)
• Cranesbill (Geranium)

Herbs

• Basil
• Borage
• English Lavender
• Fennel
• Marjoram
• Mint
• Oregano
• Rosemary
• Sage

Some General Tips on Attracting Bees and Other Pollinators

• Don’t use pesticides.
• Use local native plants.
• Chose several colors of flowers. Colors that particularly attract bees are blue, purple, violet, white, and yellow.
• Plant flowers in clumps.
• Include flowers of different shapes.
• Have a diversity of plants flowering all season.
• Plant where bees will visit.
• give them a source of water .
• plant clover, lavender, or any plant with lots of fragrant flowers.
• Singles are best: .
• Add variety:
• Plant wildflowers and native species:
• Provide habitat:

Resources for Attracting Pollinators

WildSeed Farms    -  Seed Mix for Pollinator attracting Flower
Urban Bee Gardensl      -  Excellent information source for an Urban Bee Garden ( attracting Bees)

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