The decline of bees and other pollinators is more than just a concern—it’s a crisis. Without them, food crops, vegetable gardens, and flowerbeds would disappear.
According to the USDA and Forest Service, some bee populations have plummeted by 80%. In a 15-year study conducted in largely undisturbed forest areas, researchers found a 40% decline in bee species and a 60% decrease in individual bees. The solitary carpenter bee suffered a 97% decline. Butterflies haven’t fared much better, with losses nearing 60%.
What’s causing this? Habitat loss due to urban sprawl, competition from non-native species, and widespread pesticide use—all of which threaten pollinators at every stage of life.
But here’s the good news: You can help reverse this trend by planting a pollinator-friendly garden!
What to Plant
A diverse mix of flowering perennials ensures pollinators get the nutrition they need. Not all nectar is created equal, so planting a variety of pollinator-friendly plants provides essential nutrients throughout the seasons.
Milkweed (Asclepias) – A Lifeline for Monarchs
Milkweed is the only plant monarch butterflies use for breeding. Monarch populations have dropped from millions to fewer than 10,000—a heartbreaking decline.
- Height: 2–5 ft, varies by variety
- Zones: 3–9
- Sun: Full sun (light shade reduces flowers)
- Bloom Time: July–September
- Soil: Well-draining, tolerates poor, dry soils
- Drought-Tolerant: Yes, once established
Companion Plants:
- Echinacea – Attracts butterflies and bees; provides fall food for songbirds
- Liatris – Loved by bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds
- Gaillardia – Blooms spring through fall, feeding pollinators for months
Larkspur (Delphinium) – Tall and Vibrant
With its striking vertical spikes, Larkspur offers a feast of nectar for bees and butterflies.
- Height: 1–3.5 ft
- Zones: 3–8
- Sun: Full sun
- Bloom Time: May–July
- Soil: Rich, well-draining, organic matter-enriched
- Watering: Keep soil consistently moist, especially in dry periods
Companion Plants:
- Roses – Wide variety of colors and forms
- Lavender – Complements Larkspur’s blue hues and adds fragrance
- Rudbeckia – Bright yellow blooms contrast beautifully with Delphinium
Hardy Hibiscus (Rose Mallow, Swamp Rose) – Big, Bold, and Beautiful
With dinner plate-sized flowers, this tropical-looking plant attracts butterflies and hummingbirds.
- Height: 2–4 ft, spreads 3–4 ft
- Zones: 4–9
- Sun: Full sun
- Bloom Time: July–August
- Soil: Moist, well-draining, rich in organic material
- Watering: Deep and regular; mulch helps retain moisture
Companion Plants:
- Yarrow (Achillea) – Delicate foliage contrasts with Hibiscus’ bold blooms
- Coreopsis (Tickseed) – Daisy-like flowers in unique colors, long blooming season
- Scabiosa (Pincushion Flower) – Lavender blooms provide a soft contrast
Asters (Michaelmas Daisies) – Perfect for Small Spaces
Asters are great for front-of-the-garden plantings and container gardens, attracting butterflies and bees well into fall.
- Height: 10–18 inches
- Zones: 5–8
- Sun: Full sun
- Bloom Time: August–October
- Soil: Moderately fertile but adaptable
- Watering: Keep evenly moist, especially during dry spells
Companion Plants:
- Sedum – Star-shaped blooms that attract pollinators
- Ornamental Grasses – Add texture, movement, and structure
- Joe Pye Weed (Eupatorium) – Tall with pink or white flowers that contrast Asters beautifully
Hummingbird Mint (Agastache) – A Fragrant Pollinator Magnet
This anise-scented plant draws in hummingbirds and butterflies with its tubular flowers.
- Height: 1–4 ft
- Zones: 5–9
- Sun: Full sun
- Bloom Time: July–September
- Soil: Not picky, well-draining preferred
- Drought-Tolerant: Yes, once established—avoid overwatering
Companion Plants:
- Penstemon (Beard Tongue) – Tall spikes with tubular flowers hummingbirds love
- Gaura (Bee Blossom) – Frilly, airy flowers for a whimsical effect
- Euphorbia (Spurge) – Available in upright, mounding, and spreading forms
Beyond the Garden: More Ways to Help Pollinators
Planting is just one piece of the puzzle! Here are other ways you can support pollinators year-round:
✅ Provide bare soil for ground-nesting bees—don’t mulch everything!
✅ Offer a water source like a shallow dish with pebbles for landing.
✅ Reduce pesticide use—even “coated” seeds can harm pollinators.
✅ Choose native plants that provide the best nectar and pollen.
✅ Let some garden areas go wild—a little untidiness is a pollinator’s paradise!
The Big Picture: Why It Matters
Pollinators are essential not just for our gardens, but for global food security. Many communities around the world depend on crops pollinated by bees and butterflies. By planting even a small pollinator garden, you’re playing a role in protecting biodiversity and ensuring a food-secure future.
And let’s be honest—watching butterflies flutter and bees buzz through your garden? That’s pure joy.
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