A vibrant garden isn’t just about flowers and greenery — it’s also alive with helpful insects. Planting the right herbs invites pollinators and pest-fighting bugs that keep your garden thriving. These tiny workers are essential for healthy growth and natural pest control.
Want to give your garden a boost? Try adding these nine herbs that attract all the right bugs and watch nature work its magic.
Borage
Borage is a powerhouse herb for attracting bees and butterflies. Its bright blue, star-shaped flowers are rich in nectar and bloom over a long season. Plus, borage can help improve the health of nearby plants by enriching the soil.
Catnip
While it’s famous for making cats go wild, catnip also draws beneficial bugs like lacewings and parasitic wasps. These insects are natural enemies of aphids, mites, and other destructive pests. Bonus: catnip is drought-tolerant and easy to grow.
Anise Hyssop
With its spiky purple blooms and sweet fragrance, anise hyssop is irresistible to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. It blooms for months, providing a steady source of nectar. Plus, its aromatic leaves can be used for teas and herbal remedies.
Chamomile
Chamomile’s small, daisy-like flowers attract hoverflies and predatory wasps, which help control pest populations. Its soothing scent is a favorite among gardeners and pollinators alike. Growing chamomile adds beauty and health benefits to your garden.
Savory (Summer Savory)
This lesser-known herb is a magnet for bees and predatory insects. Its small white or lilac flowers offer valuable nectar throughout the growing season. Plus, savory's spicy flavor makes it a delicious addition to many dishes.
Lemon Thyme
A zesty twist on common thyme, lemon thyme’s blooms pull in bees and butterflies with ease. It forms a fragrant, flowering carpet that’s both beautiful and practical. Plant it near vegetable beds to boost pollination naturally.
Oregano
When allowed to flower, oregano becomes a buffet for bees, ladybugs, and other helpful bugs. Its clusters of tiny pink or purple blooms are long-lasting and full of nectar. Oregano is hardy, low-maintenance, and perfect for garden borders.
Rue
Rue is a unique herb that draws in predatory insects like hoverflies and parasitic wasps. These bugs feast on garden pests, keeping your plants healthy. While rue's strong scent can deter unwanted animals, its delicate yellow flowers bring in all the right insects.
Chervil
Chervil’s delicate white flowers attract tiny wasps and hoverflies that hunt pest insects. It prefers cooler temperatures, making it a perfect early-season herb. Plus, chervil’s mild flavor is a lovely addition to salads and soups.
Planting herbs that attract beneficial bugs sets your garden up for success. These insects pollinate, control pests, and help your garden thrive. Start with a few and enjoy a healthier, more vibrant space.
Comments
No Comments