Are Bees Drawn to Marigolds? Investigating the Bond between Insects and Blossoms
In the heart of urban expansion, gardens serve as small sanctuaries for a variety of pollinators, particularly bees. A key component in fostering a thriving bee population and promoting pollination is nurturing garden biodiversity. This approach, often referred to as bee-friendly gardening, involves the strategic selection of plants and the creation of habitats that support bees and other beneficial insects.
One such group of plants that prove beneficial are marigolds. By cultivating a range of marigold varieties, gardeners can provide a constant supply of nectar and pollen, attracting a multitude of bees and other pollinators. The best choices for attracting bees and promoting pollinator activity in a garden are primarily French marigolds (Tagetes patula), especially the Sparky Mix, and Lemon Gem (Tagetes tenuifolia).
Marigold Sparky Mix, a hardy annual French marigold, boasts bright gold, orange, red, and bicolor blooms that actively attract pollinators like bees. Its robust nature and resistance to pests make it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. The Sparky Mix tolerates sun, heat, and drought, blooming continuously with minimal care.
Lemon Gem Marigolds offer small, five-petaled, bright flowers that provide bite-sized edible blooms, making them attractive to pollinators. These low-growing plants are suitable for borders and containers and thrive in full sun. Their smaller flowers are accessible to bees and other beneficial insects.
Both these marigold varieties have vibrant colors, which are known to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. The Sparky Mix’s variety of colors combined with its robust nature makes it especially suited for sustained garden pollinator activity. Lemon Gem’s low height and compact blooms complement pollinator gardens well.
Here's a quick guide to help you choose the best marigolds for your garden:
| Marigold Variety | Scientific Name | Key Features for Pollinators | Growth Habit | Notes | |------------------|-----------------|---------------------------------------------|-----------------------|-----------------------------------| | Sparky Mix | Tagetes patula | Bright, multicolor blooms attract bees; repels pests | Hardy annual, up to 20" tall | Drought-tolerant, continuous bloomer[1] | | Lemon Gem | Tagetes tenuifolia | Small, edible flowers attractive to bees | Low growing, 8-10" tall | Great for containers/borders[5] |
These marigolds are best planted in full sun with well-drained soils to optimize flowering and pollinator visits. By incorporating these bee-friendly plants into your garden design, you can contribute to the health and well-being of pollinators while enjoying the beauty and benefits of a vibrant, pollinator-rich garden.
References: [1] The Old Farmer's Almanac [2] Bee City USA [3] National Wildlife Federation [5] HGTV Gardens
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