By Blake Jackson
This spring, gardeners can create vibrant spaces that also support pollinators by choosing hardworking annual plants, according to University of Missouri Extension horticulturist Kathi Mecham. By selecting the right varieties, even small gardens or containers can provide essential resources for beneficial insects and wildlife.
“Attracting pollinators is both essential and enjoyable,” says Mecham. “Bees, butterflies, hummingbirds and other beneficial insects play a vital role in pollinating food crops and keeping ecosystems healthy.”
Many annual flowers that attract pollinators are easy to grow, widely available, and bloom continuously until frost. While they are generally low-maintenance, Mecham notes they still require some care.
Most need occasional watering and minimal deadheading, though container plants may dry out faster and require more frequent watering, even if they are drought-tolerant.
Gardeners with limited space can still make a meaningful impact. “With a little planning, you can create a garden that provides food, shelter and water for pollinators and supports healthier landscapes and food systems,” Mecham said.
For best results, pollinator-friendly annuals should be planted in full sun, receiving six to eight hours of light daily. Avoiding insecticides and systemic pesticides is critical to protect pollinators. Grouping flowers together helps insects locate them more easily, and adding a shallow water source, such as a dish with stones, provides hydration.
Popular choices include zinnias, known for their vibrant colors and resilience, and cosmos, which add height and attract beneficial insects. Lantana is another excellent option, offering long-lasting blooms and strong drought tolerance.
Additional easy-to-grow annuals include sunflowers, tithonia, salvia, alyssum, petunias, cuphea, gaura, and gomphrena. These plants thrive in sunny conditions, tolerate heat, and draw a variety of pollinators.
“Creating a pollinator-friendly garden doesn’t have to be complicated,” says Mecham. “Just plant smart, skip the chemicals and let nature do the rest.”
PhotoCredit: pexels-olga-divnaya
Categories: Missouri, General