Support Pollinators with the Right Plants for Your Garden
If you’re looking to create a pollinator-friendly garden, choosing the right plants for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects is key. With the UK’s pollinator populations under pressure, it’s never been more important to fill our gardens with nectar-rich flowers that provide a vital food source throughout the seasons. Whether you have a window box, patio pots, or a full garden border, there are plenty of plants for pollinators that are both beautiful and beneficial.
In this blog, we’ll share top tips on what to plant, when to plant it, and how to turn your outdoor space into a haven for wildlife – all while keeping your garden looking stunning.
What Are Pollinators & Why Do They Matter?
Pollinators are insects and animals that transfer pollen from one flower to another, allowing plants to reproduce. In the UK, this includes bumblebees, solitary bees, hoverflies, butterflies, moths, and even some beetles. Over 75% of our leading food crops rely on pollination - not to mention the wild plants that support other forms of wildlife. But due to habitat loss, pesticide use, invasive species, and climate change, many pollinators are in serious decline. By planting with pollinators in mind, you’re actively contributing to bee conservation and helping to boost garden biodiversity.
🔗 Learn more from the Bumblebee Conservation Trust
🔗 RHS: Plants for Pollinators
Best Plants for Pollinators in the UK
The best way to attract pollinators is by planting a wide variety of nectar and pollen-rich flowers that bloom from early spring to late autumn. Here are some of our top picks - all available in our plant area:
🐝 Top Plants for Bees
Bees are drawn to flowers with open shapes and plenty of nectar and pollen.
Lavender – A bee favourite, offering both scent and colour throughout summer.
Echinacea (Coneflower) – Provides a landing pad of nectar-rich blooms.
Foxgloves – These tall spikes are perfect for long-tongued bees like bumblebees.
Shop bee-friendly plants »
🦋 Best Plants for Butterflies
Butterflies love bright colours and flat flowerheads to rest and feed on.
Buddleja (Butterfly Bush) – Aptly named and irresistible to butterflies.
Verbena bonariensis – Tall, airy stems with clusters of purple blooms.
Sedum (Stonecrop) – Late-season nectar source, especially vital in autumn.
Browse butterfly-attracting plants »
🌸 All-Round Pollinator Winners
Wildflower Seed Mixes – A natural mix of native species ideal for bees and butterflies alike.
Hardy Geraniums – Long flowering and loved by pollinators.
Salvia – Vibrant colours and high nectar content.
Explore our Wildflower Seeds »
When and Where to Plant
Creating a pollinator paradise is all about smart planting.
Sunlight matters: Most nectar-rich plants thrive in sunny spots.
Shelter from the wind: Choose sheltered borders or hedging to give pollinators a safe feeding spot.
Year-round blooms: Aim for a planting plan that offers flowers from early spring (e.g., crocus, hellebore) through to late autumn (e.g., asters, sedum).
Small space? Use containers with lavender, salvia or herbs like thyme and oregano.
Extra Tips for a Pollinator Paradise
Supporting pollinators goes beyond just planting flowers. Try these simple additions to boost your wildlife garden:
🐝 Go Pesticide-Free
Many insecticides and weedkillers harm bees and butterflies. Choose organic or natural methods instead.
💧 Provide a Water Source
A shallow dish filled with water and pebbles gives insects a safe place to drink.
🌾 Leave it a little wild
An untidy corner with long grass, hollow stems, or a bug hotel offers nesting and overwintering space.
Shop the Look & Make a Difference
Ready to build your own bee garden? Explore our full range of pollinator-friendly plants, wildflower seeds, and garden accessories both in-store and online.
🛍️ Buy Pollinator Plants in the UK »
🐝 Look out for the “Plants for Pollinators” label - a sure sign your purchase supports wildlife.
🌿 Our team are always happy to recommend their favourites - just ask during your next visit!
By planting even a few pollinator-friendly plants, you’re playing a part in protecting some of the UK’s most valuable and vulnerable species. Whether you’re gardening on a grand scale or simply adding a pot of lavender to your patio, you’re helping to create a pollinator-friendly garden that supports bees, butterflies, and beyond. Pop in to see our full range of bee plants UK, or browse online to start your wildlife gardening journey today.
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