Asters refer to a perplexing variety of plants, many of which were previously classified as other plants but now bear little daisy-like blooms. The bees will visit all of them and don't give a damn. Asters at garden centres typically bloom in the summer or the fall and prefer full sun and moist soil.
While deciding where to place these plants, keep in mind that many penstemons in this diverse flower family are native to deserts and mountain ranges. Southeasterly-grown penstemons typically prefer greater moisture.
It should come as no surprise that raising a plant with this name is like erecting a massive bee hoarding. Bee balm likes damp soil, but it may also develop powdery mildew; produced versions like this one, called "Raspberry Wine,"
We like the bright addition of a flower that can withstand the summer heat and blooms after many other plants have lost their colour. On its nectar and pollen-filled centre, bees adore to feast. R. hirta is a quick-growing plant with bright yellow rays that rapidly reseeds itself. A perennial with golden rays,
Any blue sage will draw bees, whether you choose blossoms that are sky blue, bluish lavender, or deep indigo. With periodic deadheading, sturdy, tall spires of flowers remain for months. Animals avoid eating the fragrant leaves.
Because of its fragrant leaves and profusion of purple flowers, catmint has won the hearts of both gardeners and bees. Because of how vigorous this plant is, you might end up having more than you intended, but you can simply regulate it by picking off the wasted blossoms.
The indispensable contribution chives make to the herb garden makes them stand out as more than simply another blossoming onion. Wait till spring to chop up the leaves to serve as a garnish for soups and salads or to put on potatoes.
Although cleome is frequently called "spider flower," those who are arachnophobic need not be afraid of its vibrant blossoms. Cleome grows quickly from seed and is typically found in pink, purple, or white hues. It can also be bought from a garden centre.
Fall is just teeming with bees, from little sweat bees to enormous carpenter bees. By the end of the growing season, these plants offer an important food supply and can flourish almost anyplace. Although zigzag goldenrod can be cultivated in a woodland garden, most goldenrods demand well-drained soil in a sunny location.
Any butterfly garden would benefit from having this "weed." Throughout the summer, Joe-Pye weed climbs impressively from the back of sunny flowerbeds, and its enormous pink flowerheads can bloom until the following fall.