Winter can be a tough time for pollinators. Many flowers stop blooming, leaving bees and butterflies with few food sources. But some hardy plants keep producing nectar even in cold weather.
You can help pollinators survive the winter by growing the right flowers in your garden. Adding winter-blooming plants gives bees and other insects a vital food source during lean months. This article will show you five great flower options that attract and feed pollinators through the cold season.
In this article, we'll cover
1. Winter Jasmine
Winter jasmine brings cheer to your garden with its bright yellow flowers. This hardy shrub blooms on bare stems during the cold months.
You’ll love how it adds a pop of color when other plants are dormant. Winter jasmine also helps pollinators. Its flowers provide food for bees and butterflies active in cooler weather.
2. Snowdrops
Snowdrops are small white flowers that bloom in late winter. You’ll love how these hardy plants pop up through snow, hinting at spring’s arrival.
Bees adore snowdrops on warmer winter days. Plant them in rich soil with some shade for best results. They thrive in zones 3-8.
3. Winter Honeysuckle
Winter honeysuckle is a great choice for your winter garden. This shrub blooms from November to March, filling the air with a sweet scent. You’ll love the creamy white flowers that appear on bare stems.
This plant can grow up to 15 feet tall and wide. It’s easy to care for and thrives in partial shade. Winter honeysuckle attracts bees and other pollinators, providing them with vital nectar during cold months.
4. Hellebores
Hellebores are lovely winter flowers that can bring color to your garden. These hardy plants bloom from late fall through early spring, providing food for pollinators when little else is available.
You’ll find hellebores in shades of white, pink, purple, and even dark red. Their cup-shaped flowers attract bees and other insects looking for nectar and pollen.
Plant hellebores in partial shade and well-draining soil. They’re low-maintenance and can thrive in cold weather, making them perfect for winter gardens.
5. Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is a unique winter-blooming shrub that can brighten up your garden. Its spidery yellow flowers appear on bare branches, creating a magical winter display.
These fragrant blossoms are a favorite among pollinators like moths and beetles. By planting witch hazel, you’re providing food for these helpful creatures during the cold months.