Pollinators are the unsung heroes of our ecosystems, playing a critical role in the reproduction of countless plants, including many of the foods we enjoy. Declining pollinator populations are a serious concern, but gardeners can make a significant difference by choosing plants that provide essential resources like nectar and pollen. While we often focus on flowering trees, shrubs, and perennials, the ground beneath our feet – the ground cover – can also be a valuable haven for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. Choosing the right ground cover not only beautifies your landscape but also transforms it into a pollinator paradise.
Why Ground Cover Matters for Pollinators
Ground cover plants offer several benefits for pollinators. Firstly, they provide a diverse range of flowering times, ensuring a continuous supply of nectar and pollen throughout the growing season. This is especially important during early spring and late fall when other floral resources are scarce. Secondly, they create shelter and nesting habitat. Many ground covers form dense mats that offer protection from predators and harsh weather conditions. Some pollinators, like certain species of bees, even nest directly in the ground, benefiting from the undisturbed soil beneath the foliage. Thirdly, they can suppress weeds, reducing the need for herbicides and pesticides that can harm pollinators. By creating a healthy, thriving ground cover, you can minimize the use of chemicals that negatively impact these vital creatures.
Top Ground Covers for Attracting Pollinators
Selecting the right ground cover requires careful consideration of your local climate, soil type, and the specific needs of the pollinators you wish to attract. Here are some outstanding options known for their pollinator appeal:
Creeping Thyme (Thymus serpyllum)
Creeping thyme is a low-growing, fragrant ground cover that is incredibly attractive to bees. Its tiny, nectar-rich flowers bloom profusely in summer, creating a vibrant carpet of color. It thrives in sunny locations with well-drained soil and is drought-tolerant once established. The aromatic foliage is also a bonus, releasing a pleasant scent when walked upon. Consider planting different varieties of creeping thyme to extend the bloom period and attract a wider range of pollinators.
Clover (Trifolium species)
Clover, often considered a weed, is actually a valuable pollinator plant. White clover (Trifolium repens) and red clover (Trifolium pratense) are particularly attractive to bees and other beneficial insects. Clover is easy to grow, tolerates a wide range of soil conditions, and fixes nitrogen in the soil, enriching it for other plants. It’s also a relatively low-maintenance ground cover, making it a great choice for gardeners who want to support pollinators without a lot of fuss.
Sedum (Sedum species)
Sedums, also known as stonecrops, are succulent ground covers that are well-suited to dry, sunny locations. Their fleshy leaves store water, making them drought-tolerant, and their late-summer blooms provide a valuable source of nectar for pollinators when other flowers are fading. Sedums come in a variety of colors and textures, adding visual interest to the landscape. ‘Autumn Joy’ and ‘Dragon’s Blood’ are popular cultivars that are particularly attractive to bees and butterflies.
Veronica (Veronica species)
Veronica, also known as speedwell, is a versatile ground cover with attractive blue, purple, or pink flowers. It blooms over a long period, providing a continuous supply of nectar for pollinators. Veronica prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. ‘Georgia Blue’ and ‘Waterperry Blue’ are popular varieties that are known for their vibrant flower color and ability to attract bees and butterflies.
Wild Strawberry (Fragaria virginiana)
Wild strawberry is a low-growing ground cover that produces edible berries and attractive white flowers. Its flowers attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, and its berries provide food for birds and other wildlife. Wild strawberry prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It spreads by runners, forming a dense mat that can help suppress weeds.
Bugleweed (Ajuga reptans)
Bugleweed is a fast-spreading ground cover with attractive foliage and spikes of blue, purple, or pink flowers. It is shade-tolerant and prefers moist, well-drained soil. Bugleweed attracts bees and butterflies, and its dense foliage provides shelter for beneficial insects. ‘Black Scallop’ and ‘Chocolate Chip’ are popular cultivars with dark, glossy foliage.
Creating a Pollinator-Friendly Ground Cover Ecosystem
Beyond simply selecting the right plants, there are several strategies you can employ to maximize the benefits of your ground cover for pollinators.
Planting in Masses
Pollinators are more attracted to large patches of flowers than to scattered individual plants. Planting ground cover in masses creates a more visible and accessible food source, making it easier for pollinators to find and utilize. Aim for groupings of at least three plants of the same species to create a visually appealing and pollinator-friendly landscape.
Providing a Water Source
Pollinators need water just like any other living creature. Providing a shallow dish of water with pebbles or marbles for them to land on can be a lifesaver, especially during hot, dry weather. Change the water regularly to prevent mosquito breeding and keep it clean for the pollinators.
Avoiding Pesticides and Herbicides
Pesticides and herbicides can be harmful to pollinators, even those labeled as “bee-friendly.” Avoid using these chemicals in your garden and opt for organic pest control methods instead. Hand-weeding, mulching, and companion planting can help control weeds without harming beneficial insects.
Allowing Some “Weeds”
Many plants that are often considered weeds, such as dandelions and clover, are actually valuable sources of nectar and pollen for pollinators. Consider allowing some of these plants to grow in your ground cover, especially in areas that are less visible.
Mulching Strategically
Mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. However, thick layers of mulch can also prevent ground-nesting bees from accessing the soil. Use mulch sparingly around ground cover plants, and consider leaving some areas bare for nesting.
Considering Bloom Time
Choose a variety of ground cover species with different bloom times to ensure a continuous supply of nectar and pollen throughout the growing season. This will provide consistent support for pollinators from early spring to late fall. Research the bloom times of different ground cover varieties and select those that complement each other to create a long-lasting display of flowers.
Specific Considerations for Different Pollinators
While many ground covers attract a wide range of pollinators, some are particularly attractive to specific species. Understanding the preferences of different pollinators can help you tailor your ground cover selection to meet their specific needs.
Bees
Bees are attracted to flowers with bright colors, particularly blue, purple, and yellow. They prefer flowers with shallow nectar tubes that are easy to access. Creeping thyme, clover, and Veronica are excellent choices for attracting bees.
Butterflies
Butterflies are attracted to flowers with bright colors and large landing platforms. They prefer flowers with long nectar tubes that they can reach with their proboscis. Butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa) and other milkweed species are essential for monarch butterflies.
Hummingbirds
Hummingbirds are attracted to red, orange, and pink flowers with tubular shapes. They feed on nectar and insects, so providing a variety of flowering plants is important. Trumpet honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens) is a good choice for attracting hummingbirds.
Selecting the Right Ground Cover for Your Landscape
Choosing the right ground cover involves considering several factors beyond pollinator appeal. You also need to consider your local climate, soil type, sun exposure, and desired aesthetic.
Climate
Select ground cover species that are well-suited to your local climate. Consider factors such as temperature extremes, rainfall, and humidity. Native ground covers are often the best choice, as they are adapted to the local conditions and provide valuable resources for native pollinators.
Soil Type
Different ground cover species prefer different soil types. Some prefer well-drained soil, while others tolerate heavy clay soil. Amend your soil as needed to create the ideal growing conditions for your chosen ground cover.
Sun Exposure
Consider the amount of sunlight your ground cover will receive. Some species prefer full sun, while others thrive in partial shade. Choose ground cover that is well-suited to the available sunlight to ensure optimal growth and flowering.
Aesthetic Preferences
Choose ground cover that complements the overall aesthetic of your landscape. Consider factors such as foliage color, flower color, and growth habit. There are many different ground cover species to choose from, so you can find one that meets both your pollinator needs and your aesthetic preferences.
By carefully considering these factors and selecting the right ground cover species, you can create a beautiful and pollinator-friendly landscape that benefits both you and the environment. The addition of pollinator-friendly ground covers helps contribute to the overall health of the local ecosystem. It’s a small step that can have a big impact.
FAQ 1: Why are ground covers important for attracting pollinators to my garden?
Ground covers provide a low-growing habitat and food source that can be particularly beneficial for pollinators. Many ground covers offer early-season blooms, filling a critical nectar gap when other flowers are scarce. They also create sheltered spaces for nesting and overwintering pollinators, enhancing the overall ecological health of your garden.
Furthermore, ground covers can suppress weeds, reducing the need for herbicides that can harm pollinators. By choosing native or pollinator-friendly ground covers, you contribute to a more diverse and resilient ecosystem that supports a wider range of pollinator species, from bees and butterflies to hummingbirds and beneficial insects.
FAQ 2: Which ground covers are most effective at attracting bees?
Bees are particularly attracted to ground covers with brightly colored, single-petaled flowers that offer easy access to nectar and pollen. Creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum) is an excellent choice, providing fragrant foliage and abundant purple or pink blooms. White clover (Trifolium repens), although sometimes considered a weed, is a valuable nectar source for many bee species.
Other bee-friendly options include sedum (Sedum spp.), which offers a variety of textures and late-season blooms, and phlox subulata (creeping phlox), known for its masses of vibrant spring flowers. When selecting ground covers for bees, consider bloom time and flower shape to ensure a consistent and accessible food supply throughout the growing season.
FAQ 3: How do I choose the right ground cover for my specific garden conditions?
Selecting the right ground cover involves assessing your garden’s specific environmental factors. Consider the amount of sunlight your garden receives, the type of soil you have (e.g., sandy, clay, well-draining), and the overall moisture level. For shady areas, consider ground covers like wild ginger (Asarum canadense) or sweet woodruff (Galium odoratum).
For sunny, dry areas, drought-tolerant options like creeping thyme, sedum, or ice plant (Delosperma spp.) are ideal. Always research the specific needs of each ground cover species before planting to ensure it will thrive in your garden’s conditions, providing optimal benefits for both pollinators and your landscape.
FAQ 4: How can I prepare my soil before planting pollinator-friendly ground covers?
Proper soil preparation is crucial for the successful establishment of ground covers. Before planting, remove any existing weeds, grass, and debris from the planting area. Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage, aeration, and nutrient content. This will create a healthy foundation for your ground covers to thrive.
It is also important to check the soil pH and adjust it if necessary based on the specific needs of the chosen ground cover species. Most ground covers prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil. Once the soil is prepared, water the area thoroughly to settle the soil and provide moisture for the newly planted ground covers.
FAQ 5: How often should I water and fertilize my pollinator-friendly ground covers?
Watering and fertilization needs vary depending on the specific ground cover species and local climate conditions. Newly planted ground covers require more frequent watering until they are established. Once established, most ground covers are relatively drought-tolerant and only need watering during prolonged dry spells. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilize ground covers sparingly, as excessive fertilization can promote excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering. A light application of compost or a slow-release organic fertilizer in the spring is usually sufficient. Avoid using synthetic fertilizers, as they can harm pollinators and disrupt the natural soil ecosystem.
FAQ 6: How do I manage weeds in my ground cover patch without harming pollinators?
Weed management is essential for maintaining a healthy ground cover patch and preventing competition for resources. Hand-weeding is the safest and most effective method for removing weeds without harming pollinators. Regular weeding, especially during the early stages of ground cover establishment, will help prevent weed infestations.
Avoid using herbicides, as they can be toxic to pollinators and other beneficial insects. If herbicide use is necessary, choose a targeted herbicide specifically designed for the type of weeds you are targeting and apply it carefully according to the manufacturer’s instructions, avoiding any contact with the ground covers or nearby pollinator habitats. Consider using natural weed control methods, such as mulching with organic materials like wood chips or shredded leaves.
FAQ 7: How can I encourage more pollinators to visit my ground cover patch?
To maximize the attractiveness of your ground cover patch to pollinators, plant a variety of ground cover species that bloom at different times of the year. This will provide a continuous source of nectar and pollen throughout the growing season. Consider adding other pollinator-friendly plants to your garden, such as flowering shrubs, trees, and perennials.
Provide a water source for pollinators, such as a shallow dish filled with water and pebbles or a bird bath. Avoid using pesticides, herbicides, and other chemicals that can harm pollinators. Create a welcoming habitat by leaving some areas of bare ground for nesting bees and providing shelter from the wind and rain.