Add flowering plants to attract more bees

08 Apr 2026, 07:00 by Laura Simpson · The Seattle Times

Q: What can I do in my garden to help out the bees? I know I should plant more flowers, but what type? Is there anything else I can do?

A: European honeybees are the most familiar pollinators, but native bees play an important role as well. Unlike European bees, native bees tend to be solitary and will nest either in the ground, in preexisting holes or crevices, or with other bees. Both types of bees can benefit from planting the right flowers and providing a safe environment.

As much as possible, refrain from using pesticides since they will kill bees as well as pests. If you must, spray in the early morning before the sun comes up to avoid contact with bees. If using a systemic pesticide, such as a soil drench for citrus leaf miners, apply after the tree has flowered since the systemic pesticide will permeate the entire plant, including the flowers and their nectar and pollen.

European bees need reliable pollen and nectar sources (flowers). Try adding flowering plants such as gaillardia (blanket flowers), salvia, lavender, rosemary, or seaside daisies. Eventually, you may want to remove turfgrass to make room for a wider variety of flowers.

Aim for several different types of flowers to be in bloom every week of the growing season. I recommend visiting your local nurseries and gardens every few weeks and taking note of any plants that catch your eye. Some plants may not look like anything special until they’re flowering or are covered in bees, butterflies and hummingbirds.

Remember to write both the botanical and common names so you can research before buying. First of all, make sure the plant of your desire is not on the invasive species list. Then, take notice of its mature size, cultural requirements (how much water and sunlight), and any other important information. Luckily, you can usually find all this information on your phone, so you shouldn’t have to delay a gratifying plant purchase for long.

Don’t neglect annual flowers, since these are often easiest to grow and can reseed or naturalize easily. Poppies, lupine, cosmos and sunflowers are all good choices. Plant relatively densely, but leave some areas of bare ground since many of the native bees use mud to build their nests.