Planting For Pollinators

Bernie Dinter, Horticulturist and owner of Dinter Nursery

Ahealthy garden is one with diversity. A wide range of plants attracts many forms of wildlife, but the most important group is pollinating insects. Most plants require insect pollination to set seed to carry on the species or set fruit on edible plants. Edible plants are not just for us but for many forms of wildlife that pass through the garden, especially birds.

Honey bees come to mind when we think of pollinating insects but they are an introduction from Europe and require managed hives to thrive. We are fortunate to have many species of native pollinating insects such as the Blue Mason Bees and many species of Bumble Bees. These are the most important garden pollinators, which we hardly notice.

Diversity of plants keep insects thriving and it can be achieved by having something blooming in every season, especially early spring and late fall when there are fewer native species blooming. Insects prefer smaller sized flowers rather than large flowers that we plant for colourful gardens. Plants with double blooms are beautiful but useless to insects as the anthers holding pollen have been bred out of the flower. A good example of a February/March blooming favourite is Erica or winter blooming heather.

Several plant families are favoured by insects. The rose family has a wide range of trees and shrubs, all with 5 petal saucer-like flowers. The aster family is one of the largest with the familiar daisy bloom being a large cluster of small single blooms preferred by insects. The carrot family is recognized by its large, round cluster of tiny flowers. The mint family that includes lavender is characterized by its tubular flowers that insects like climbing into. These families represent most of the common garden plants and will be enjoyed by both yourself and the little noticed insect world.

Pollinator Gardens Plan and Plant Now

Many plants to choose from including: Cotoneaster California Lilac Salal (Native) Rock Cress - Aubretia Sweet William Candytuft Beebalm Sage Thyme Lavender Maple Trees Dogwoods Linden Trees and many more..

Serving local gardeners since 1973 www.dinternursery.ca 250 748-2023

5km South of Duncan on Hwy 1