As heralds of spring, snowdrops are also very important for pollinators – they give them an early source of nectar. But, did you know that they aren’t actually native to Britain, but were introduced from mainland Europe as ornamental garden plants in the late 18th century? Cyclamen share a similar history and are equally valuable to insects. If you want to have a veritable feast for butterflies and bees, team them up with some hellebores (only helleborus foetidus is native to the UK), and a few early-flowering crocus cultivars.
Growing native British plants in your garden, park, or window box is very important, as it supports our wildlife. Not only does it help insects, but also animals who depend on insects as a food source. Incredible that it all starts with plants!
I’m a huge believer in striking a balance; so yes! Please do incorporate British native flora into your green spaces; but if you’d like to add vegetation that is non-native, I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that despite it being a contentious issue. In fact, as you can extend the flowering season considerably with carefully planned choices of non-native flora.
Not only does this mean that there’s an almost constant food supply for insects, but it’s also a great way to keep your gardening hobby alive, which in turn can work wonders for your mental and physical health. We’re a lot like insects that way, drawn in by the pretty colours and pleasant fragrance of flowers; all lures to help pollination.
The only flowers that won’t be of use to pollinators are double flowers (i.e. roses, camellias, carnations). Insects are unable to reach the nectar, making them redundant as a food source; just something to keep in mind! Also beware of bears’ breeches (acanthus mollis), as they can accidentally kill some species of bees with their bracts, which make it hard for bees to exit after feeding. If you are worried about this but love acanthus, simply snip off the flower spikes and use them in a floral arrangement indoors as a little gift to yourself. You can still enjoy the architectural foliage in your garden.
I’ve already had some lovely feedback about my brand new Boredom Busters FREE spring challenge. We launched on Valentine’s Day, which was perfect timing to demonstrate my love for nature and people—hopefully it will cultivate your love of them too! I’m super excited about it! I’m even more excited about the other Boredom Busters stuff I’m working on… You’ll have to wait & see what I’ve got up my sleeve!
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