Plant these annuals to support pollinator populations

Plant these annuals to support bee populations

What you probably already know: Wildflowers and perennials are generally considered the go-to if you’re trying to attract pollinators to your garden. But a new study out of Michigan State University suggests some annuals can draw bees and other insects as well.

Why? Annuals are some of the most popular plants sold every year, so researchers set out to see if some were better for vital pollinators than others. The outcome was significant. Two species of begonias and one impatiens attracted the most insects.

What it means: Many serious gardeners have eschewed annuals or limit them in their gardens, saying they create “pollinator deserts.” But more than half of all of the flowers sold at garden centers in the U.S. each year are annuals, with petunias, geraniums, pansies, begonias and impatiens leading the sales. This study will help gardeners select plants most likely to support pollinator communities, something that is vital to the health of the entire ecosystem.

What happens now? If you want to take advantage of this new information, head to your local garden store and pick up some “Cocktail Brandy” or “Ambassador Rose Blush” begonias and “Accent Coral” impatiens, and watch your garden come alive.