BLOG Pollinator-Friendly Gardens: Bellevue's Expert Guide to Attracting Bees and Butterflies Sep 25, 2024

Creating a beautiful and vibrant garden not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your home but also plays a crucial role in supporting the ecosystem. One way to make your garden more eco-friendly and inviting to beneficial insects like bees and butterflies is by designing a pollinator-friendly space. At Bellevue Lawn and Landscaping, we understand the importance of conservation and sustainability, which is why we have put together this expert guide to help you attract bees and butterflies to your garden.

Choose Native Plants One of the most effective ways to attract bees and butterflies to your garden is by incorporating native plants into your landscaping. Native plants are well-adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, making them easier to maintain and more attractive to pollinators. Some excellent choices for a pollinator-friendly garden include milkweed, coneflowers, butterfly bush, bee balm, and wildflowers. These plants provide food and shelter for bees and butterflies, helping to support their populations.

Provide a Water Source In addition to nectar-rich flowers, bees and butterflies need access to water to thrive. Having a shallow water source in your garden, such as a birdbath or a shallow dish filled with water and rocks, can attract pollinators and provide them with the hydration they need. Be sure to keep the water source clean and replenished regularly to ensure the health and safety of visiting insects.

Avoid Pesticides Pesticides are harmful to pollinators and can have devastating effects on bee and butterfly populations. To create a truly pollinator-friendly garden, it is essential to avoid using chemical pesticides and herbicides. Instead, opt for natural pest control methods, such as handpicking pests, using barriers like row covers, or planting companion plants that deter harmful insects.

Plant in Clusters Bees and butterflies are more likely to visit your garden if they can easily spot clusters of flowers from a distance. Planting flowers in groups or clusters can help attract pollinators and make it easier for them to access the nectar and pollen they need. Consider arranging plants in drifts or clumps rather than scattering them throughout your garden to create a more visually appealing and pollinator-friendly space.

Provide Shelter In addition to food and water, bees and butterflies also need shelter to rest and protect themselves from predators and the elements. Adding elements like bee houses, butterfly shelters, or leaving some debris or leaf litter in your garden can provide valuable habitat for pollinators. Bees may also nest in bare patches of soil, so consider leaving some areas of your garden unmulched for ground-nesting bees.

By following these expert tips from Bellevue Lawn and Landscaping, you can create a beautiful and pollinator-friendly garden that attracts bees and butterflies while supporting the local ecosystem. Not only will you enjoy the sight of these beneficial insects in your garden, but you will also be contributing to their conservation and helping to maintain a healthy and sustainable environment. Contact us today to learn more about our landscaping and hardscaping services and how we can help you create a pollinator-friendly garden that you can be proud of.