A Bee Wildflower Mix is specifically curated to attract and support bee populations by providing a continuous supply of nectar and pollen throughout the growing season. These mixes typically include a diverse array of annual and perennial wildflowers, each selected for their bee-friendly attributes and staggered bloom times. This mix is an excellent choice for those with bee hives on their property or anyone looking to support pollinator health while beautifying their landscape.
While the mix varieties may vary, some of the most common varieties are Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta), Lance-Leaved Coreopsis (Coreopsis lanceolata), Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa), New England Aster (Aster novae-angliae), Partridge Pea (Chamaecrista fasciculata), California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica), Plains Coreopsis (Coreopsis tinctoria), Cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus), Borage (Borago officinalis), Sunflower (Helianthus annuus), Sweet Alyssum (Lobularia maritima), Lavender Hyssop (Agastache foeniculum), Bee Balm (Monarda didyma), and Anise Hyssop (Agastache foeniculum).
This selection ensures a vibrant and long-lasting display, providing essential foraging resources for various bee species and enhancing the ecological value of gardens and landscapes. The wildflower bed will grow to a height of 10-48 inches under normal conditions.
- 1/4 ounce sows approximately 31 square feet.
- Seeding rate: 25 pounds per acre depending on density desired.
Bee Mix Growing Guide
Outdoor Sowing
- Timing: Sow seeds in early spring after the danger of frost has passed, or in late fall for natural stratification over winter. This mix provides nectar and pollen sources for bees throughout the growing season.
- Location: Choose a sunny area with well-draining soil. This mix is ideal for attracting bees and supporting their populations in any landscape or garden setting.
- Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil to a depth of 2-4 inches and remove weeds. Adding compost can improve soil fertility and moisture retention to encourage healthy growth.
- Seeding:
- Mix seeds with sand or a carrier for even distribution.
- Broadcast seeds evenly over the prepared area.
- Lightly rake or press seeds into the soil surface without burying, as many wildflower seeds need light to germinate.
- Watering: Water immediately after sowing to ensure good soil-seed contact. Keep the soil evenly moist during germination and establishment.
General Care Tips
- Sunlight: This mix thrives in full sun, which is ideal for bee activity and growth. Partial shade is tolerated, though bees prefer areas with abundant sunlight.
- Watering: Water regularly during the establishment phase. Once established, this mix is moderately drought-tolerant but will benefit from occasional watering during dry spells.
- Weed Control: Remove weeds during the early growth phase to minimize competition and ensure healthy wildflower development.
- Fertilizing: Fertilizing is not typically required. Over-fertilizing can promote weed growth at the expense of wildflowers.
- Pruning: Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continued flowering. Allow some flowers to go to seed for natural reseeding and to support wildlife, especially bees.
Additional Information
- Seed Coverage: 1/4 ounce covers approximately 31 square feet. Adjust coverage based on your desired seeding density.
- Seeding Rate: Use 25 pounds per acre depending on the desired density.
- Blooming: Enjoy a vibrant, long-lasting display with continuous blooms throughout the growing season, with plants reaching a height of 10-48 inches under normal conditions.
- Pollinator-Friendly: This mix is specifically designed to provide a continuous supply of nectar and pollen for bees, supporting their populations and enhancing the ecological value of your landscape.
