We all want our gardens to look lush and full of showy flowers. Pollinators want the same thing, but for a different reason. They need an ongoing buffet of food rather than a pleasingly beautiful garden. For example, early spring is an important time for queen bumblebees who are emerging from underground winter homes looking for food when nectar and pollen sources can be scarce. In late fall it is important to have adequate flowers for pollinators preparing to overwinter, which requires ingesting a large number of calories. Fortunately, by adding the right plants we can make our properties an accessible food source for pollinators year-round.
When the Friends of the Granby Wildflower Meadow planted the five-acre meadow at 175 Salmon Brook Street, we deliberately selected native perennials that offer three seasons of blooms to fill the field. The 20+ wildflower species chosen will offer many benefits to a wide range of pollinators year-round.
Start by Taking Stock
Take stock of what plants you already have on your property and note when things are flowering, making sure to include trees and shrubs, as well as flowering perennials. Divide the spring and summer season into three parts; early, mid and late. Creating a bloom inventory chart will help you identify any interruptions in pollen and nectar sources throughout the year. Visit granbywildflowers.org to print out a worksheet.
Did you notice a few gaps in your inventory? Below are recommendations for planting a winning three-season garden at your own home, with a focus on a sunny site (6+ hours of sun) with average soil moisture. For plant recommendations on shady sites visit our website, granbywildflowers.org
Early Spring
Willows (Salix ssp.) Willows are a powerhouse tree because they support a large number of food webs. The beautiful soft, fuzzy male catkins are a well-known sign of spring. The female plant has catkins that are showy with yellow pollen. Select a species that is native to our area. Pussy willows (Salix discolor) with their distinctive catkins are a great addition.
Red Maple (Acer rubrum) The widely distributed and adaptable red maple has red flowers that appear before the leaves. With vibrant fall colors, red maples are an asset all year round.
Mid-Spring
Golden Alexanders (Zizia aurea) The vibrant yellow umbel flowers add a splash of color to spring gardens.
Virginia Strawberry (Fragaria virginiana) A wonderful groundcover that benefits a large number of wildlife with edible fruit. This native strawberry has white flowers that produce a small red berry once pollinated.
To be continued in May.