This list contains plants that will be attractive to both specialist and generalist pollen foragers. It’s important, particularly for social species that nest from Spring through Autumn, to keep a variety of plants blooming at all times. Native plants are the best. Horticultural hybrids, although they may be attractive to some humans, may have lost most of their ability to produce the necessary pollen and nectar for bees. We suggest looking for these bee friendly plants at your local nursery. Ask if they've ever been treated with neonicotinoid pesticides ("neonics" for short) and avoid them if they have--these persistent and highly toxic pesticides are very bad for bees. Head over to the Xerces Society's website to learn more about enhancing habitat for native bees and why it's so important to avoid pesticide use.
