Pollinating insects and birds help plants reproduce by carrying pollen from one plant to another. Along with the wind, these animals contribute to the production of fruits and vegetables, among other things. It is therefore possible to take advantage of their presence around your home to obtain a diverse garden and an abundant harvest. Here are some simple tips to invite them into your vegetable garden and flower beds.
Growing early-blooming plants
To attract pollinators from the first signs of spring, grow spring-blooming plants. Their flowers will feed the insects as soon as the snow melts. These can be trees, bulbs or perennials. Willow, crocus or primrose will be among the first to come back to life as soon as milder temperatures appear.
Plant colourful flowers
Create an attractive environment for bees and butterflies in your garden by adding flowers of multiple colours. Flowers with blue, white or yellow hues will attract bees. Butterflies, on the other hand, prefer blue and purple flowers.
Avoid cultivars with double or triple flowers because the pollen is more difficult to access. Choose diverse plant species known for their bright colours but also for their particular shapes.
Planting herbs and annuals
Not enough space to add plants to your vegetable garden? No problem! Several species of herbs can be grown in pots and have the advantage of attracting pollinating insects. These particularly appreciate chives, dill and oregano. Plant them in a pot or in a rail planter to save space.
For guaranteed success, add annuals with prolonged flowering such as marigolds, nasturtiums and alyssum to the garden or your arrangements.
Installing bird feeders
To divert the attention of insect-eating birds such as woodpeckers, swallows and tits, install bird feeders around your garden. A feeder for black sunflower seeds or suet cakes will please many species of birds.
Attracting hummingbirds in your yard
A seasoned pollinator, the hummingbird enjoys gardens where red flowers predominate, such as columbines, azaleas and zinnias. The hummingbird is fond of their sweet nectar.
To make your yard even more attractive, place a hummingbird feeder near the garden. Clean the feeder frequently because ants also appreciate hummingbird nectar.
With these few tips, you will attract butterflies, bees and hummingbirds to your yard. Although many fear the presence of insects around their outdoor space, cohabitation with pollinators offers several benefits such as the pollination of your plants, the fight against pests and the increase of biodiversity in the garden.
Need more tips? Visit a BMR dealer to talk to an expert.
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