June Wildlife Gardening
June is a great month to make your garden a haven for wildlife. There are many plants that bloom in June that are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other insects.
Flowers for Pollinators
Some of the best flowers for pollinators include:
- Ornamental poppies
- Foxgloves
- Lupins
- Roses
- Viper’s bugloss
Single-flowered roses and roses with floppy leaves are especially beneficial to bees because they provide easy access to pollen and nectar. Viper’s bugloss is a tall, biennial plant with blue flowers that are a favorite of bees and other pollinators.
Other Beneficial Insects
In addition to pollinators, there are many other beneficial insects that can help your garden thrive. These include:
- Shield bugs
- Froghoppers
- Rose chafer beetles
- Ladybird larvae
- Rove beetles
- Centipedes
- Slow worms
These insects help to control pests, aerate the soil, and decompose organic matter.
Grasses for Butterflies
Many species of butterflies breed in long grass. When you allow your grass to grow long, you are providing a habitat for these beautiful creatures. Some of the best grasses for butterflies include:
- Cock’s foot
- Yorkshire fog
- Fescues
Making Your Lawn More Wildlife-Friendly
Even if you don’t have a lot of space, there are things you can do to make your lawn more wildlife-friendly. Here are a few tips:
- Mow your lawn less often.
- Let some areas of your lawn grow long.
- Plant a variety of flowers and grasses.
- Avoid using pesticides and herbicides.
By following these tips, you can create a garden that is a haven for wildlife.
