Pollinators are more attracted to clumps of the same type of flower, than to individual flowers. One, it’s easier to see the clumps from a distance as the pollinator is flying around. Two, it is more efficient for the pollinator to work a clump of flowers than to have to fly any distance between each flower.
The minimum clump size recommended for a pollinator garden is at least 9-square feet. That is the equivalent of a square with 3-foot sides. The easy way to picture how large that square should be is to hold your arms out in an “L.” From the tip of your fingers to the tip of your nose is roughly 3-feet for most people, so you want a clump of flowers that would roughly fit within the “L” you formed with your arms. In other words, you are probably talking about one tree or bush, 8-12 perennials depending on how bushy they are, or a bunch of annuals.
Planting flowers in groups will not only be more aesthetically pleasing but will also attract pollinators better than planting individual flowers.
This article was part of Shannon’s original Kentucky Pollinators and Backyard Wildlife blog which evolved into the blog for Backyard Ecology.
Backyard Ecology: Exploring Nature in Your Backyard
Nature isn’t just “out there.” It’s all around us, including right outside our doors. Hi, my name is Shannon Trimboli, and I am the host of Backyard Ecology. I live in southcentral Kentucky and am a wildlife biologist, educator, author, beekeeper, and owner of a nursery specializing in plants for pollinators and wildlife conservation. I invite you to join me as we ignite our curiosity and natural wonder, explore our yards and communities, and improve our local pollinator and wildlife habitat. Learn more or subscribe to my email list at www.backyardecology.net.
