How do I attract bees and butterflies to my garden?
Plant nectar-rich flowers in sun, avoid pesticides and provide water.
Bees and butterflies are drawn to nectar- and pollen-rich flowers. A variety of plants that bloom through the seasons keeps them visiting.
Choose single-flowered varieties, which are easier for insects to feed from.
Plant choices
Lavender, salvia, sunflowers, marigolds, borage and herbs left to flower are good options. Native plants are often best.
Habitat
Provide a shallow water dish with stones, leave some undisturbed corners and avoid tidying everything away.
Avoid chemicals
Pesticides harm pollinators. Choose natural pest control, and spray, if you must, in the evening when bees are not active.
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