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Late-Summer Nectar for Pollinators
Introduction
As summer draws to a close, many insects are still actively foraging for food. Providing nectar-rich plants in late summer can give these pollinators the energy they need to survive the winter months.
Benefits of Nectar-Rich Plants
Nectar provides insects with energy to fly and build up their reserves for hibernation. By growing nectar-rich plants, you can help pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hoverflies survive the cold months.
Best Late-Summer Nectar Plants
Here are some of the best plants to grow for late-summer nectar:
Verbena Bonariensis
- Tall, delicate plant with a long flowering season
- Attractive to butterflies and moths
- Will naturalize all over the garden if left to seed
Hedera Helix (Ivy)
- Climbing evergreen that provides nectar and pollen until late November
- Holly blue caterpillars feed on ivy leaves
- Many insects hibernate in its foliage
Buddleja
- Late-flowering shrub that provides nectar when other plants have finished blooming
- Attracts bees, moths, and hoverflies
Hebe
- Many cultivars flower from late summer to autumn
- Attracts bumblebees, honeybees, butterflies, moths, and hoverflies
Sedum (Hylotelephium Spectabile)
- Trusty, late-flowering favorite
- Pink flowers provide a landing pad for pollinators
Symphyotrichum Novi-Belgii (Michaelmas Daisies)
- Named after the autumn equinox
- Attracts butterflies, moths, bumblebees, honeybees, and hoverflies
Other Late-Blooming Nectar Sources
- Asters
- Goldenrod
- Zinnias
- Sunflowers
- Coneflowers
Tips for Encouraging Pollinators
- Leave plants standing in autumn to provide shelter for insects and wildlife
- Birds will strip seedheads, providing a wonderful show
- Avoid using pesticides, which can harm pollinators
Conclusion
By providing nectar-rich plants in late summer, you can help pollinators survive the winter months and continue to play their vital role in our ecosystem. These plants are easy to grow and will add beauty to your garden while supporting these important insects.
