Written By: Patricia O’Brien, Colorado Master Gardener
It is likely that many of us attentive to the natural world in which we play, garden, harvest, and occasionally do nothing but watch buzzing insects, have heard reports of “Colony Collapse Disorder” (CCD) in which most worker bees in a colony suddenly disappear. We know this is a problem because the loss of bees threatens pollination, honey production, and the overall health of ecosystems and the global food supply, with honeybees being vital pollinators for a huge portion of crops. A CSU Plant Talk (1404) explains that while there is no proven scientific explanation for this phenomenon, associated issues such as mites, disease, parasites, weather patterns, pesticides, poor nutrition, and stress are factors inciting Colony Collapse. It was in this context that I first began my ongoing fascination with pollinators in the garden and how gardening choices contribute to bringing balance to our environment that also benefits our foodways.
Before I describe some of my favorite plants for their capacity to contribute to this rebalancing, let’s talk about the necessity of pollination in the garden. Returning to my early time in the CMG training that reminded students of basic botany, we learned that pollination is the process by which pollen is transferred from the male part of a flower (anther) to the female part of a flower (stigma), enabling fertilization and the production of seeds. This can occur through various agents such as wind, water, insects, birds, and other animals. Pollination is crucial for the reproduction of flowering plants and the production of fruits and seeds. This reproduction then allows humans to flourish! What type of plantings are especially good for these pollinators to carry forth the species? I am sharing just a few of my favorite plants to consider for attracting bees, moths, birds, and butterflies.
Because there are many resources to assist you in becoming more educated and intentional about including pollinators in the garden, I have included some links at the end of this conversation that may boost your confidence in your selections.
To begin with, I love plants that are broadly attractive to multiple pollinators. What is good for the bees is also attractive to butterflies, and even better if they also entice hummingbirds! One of the best workhorses in this category is the native Agastache hyssop. Agastache is a highly attractive plant for pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds due to its tubular flowers and abundant nectar. Hummingbirds are especially attracted to red blooming varieties of Agastache.
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Another one of my favorite plants that is well suited to our arid climate and temperature is Buddleia davidii. Butterfly bush most often has lovely and aromatic lavender or purple blooms. This plant is native to central China and Japan and was introduced to North America as an ornamental in the early twentieth century. This deciduous perennial shrub can grow up to 15 ft high in some locations. Butterfly bush blooms from mid-summer to early fall with flowers forming drooping or upright spikes at the end of branches. It can be quite attractive though it can also outgrow native species and become invasive so should be planted with consideration of its surrounding space and requirements. There are dwarf varieties that might be more suitable for your garden. Many native fans suggest that this lovely plant should not be planted due to its invasive characteristics and that gardeners should look for other native shrubs with similar pollinating characteristics. See CSU Ext Fact Sheet 7.422 for information on Native Shrubs for Colorado Landscapes. (Photo credit: The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova)
Finally, while all pollinators and the plants they are attracted to have a symbiotic relationship, one of the more fascinating interdependences between plant and pollinator is that of the yucca plant and its corresponding moth. Colorado has approximately six species of yucca, each with a corresponding species of Pronuba moth that pollinates it. This succulent plant is highly adapted to our arid climate and is a waterwise choice. Hesperaloe parviflora Red Yucca was named as a 2010 Plant Select due to its no maintenance beauty and is often pollinated by hummingbirds.
Now is the time to plan for pollinators as we are beginning to feel the excitement of planting for this year’s blooming. Nurseries are open and big box stores are putting their wares right at the front door to influence you both going in and out of the store. The best defense against the retail blizzard is to carry a list and practice single-mindedness in your purchasing power!
Resources for more information.
People and Pollinators Action Network
Project Pollinators License Plate. Every plate creates new habitat and grows this movement! Support pollinators everywhere.
Creating Habitats for Pollinators: Home
Creating vibrant habitats for pollinators like Butterflies, Bees, moths, and birds. Engaging Communities, Volunteers, Working Together.
National Audubon Society Plants For Birds
Bring birds to your home today by growing native plants. With Audubon’s Native Plant Database, you can find the best plants for the birds in your area.