Creating a Pollinator Paradise in Fayetteville: What to Plant Now

Pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds are hard at work in June, and your garden can become a haven for these vital visitors. Supporting pollinators means healthier plants, more flowers, and even bigger vegetable harvests.

Here’s how to turn your Fayetteville garden into a pollinator paradise:

1. Choose Native and Nectar-Rich Plants
Native plants are well-adapted to our region and offer familiar food sources for local pollinators. Favorites include:

• Bee Balm (Monarda) – Bright, fragrant blooms that attract bees and hummingbirds.
• Milkweed (Asclepias) – The essential host plant for monarch butterflies.
• Purple Coneflower (Echinacea) – Long-blooming and low-maintenance.
• Zinnias – Easy to grow and beloved by butterflies.
• Salvia – A hummingbird favorite that comes in many varieties.

2. Provide Water
Pollinators need water, too. Add a shallow dish with pebbles for bees to land on, or install a small birdbath or fountain.

3. Skip the Pesticides
Even “natural” pesticides can harm beneficial insects. Choose organic methods and plant a diverse range of blooms to naturally balance pests.

4. Plant in Clumps
Group the same plants together to help pollinators find them more easily.

Creating a pollinator-friendly garden is not only good for your plants, it supports local wildlife and promotes a healthier ecosystem. Visit Green Side Up this month to find the plants, tools, and advice you need to get started!