Why bother planting herbs and flowers to attract bees and butterflies to your outdoor spaces?  The reasons are as abundant as the food and flower crops you will enjoy as a result of planting areas conducive to the well-being of these valuable insects.

Many people are hesitant to plant areas that are attractive to bees because of the fear of being stung.  The truth is, most bees are gentle creatures that are simply in search of food and water for themselves and their young.  I have personally been planting flowers and herbs that attract bees for years, and I have never been stung by one of them.  It's simply a matter of using common sense by not wearing bright colors or strong perfume in the garden, lest they think you are a big flower asking for pollination.

In a habitat-type of garden situation, sticking to plants that are somewhat native to your area is a very important step in creating the balance you will need to sustain the wildlife that will be attracted to your property.  Wildflowers, herbs, and heirloom flowers are all fair game.  The best bee and butterfly gardens are those that combine brightly colored flowers and sweetly scented herbs in an easily accessible area. 

There are other considerations when planning a garden for bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects, including providing places for nesting and hiding from predators, water features, etc.  These will be covered soon in other areas of this section, so be sure to Bookmark and stop back by often.  Meanwhile, a growing list of appropriate plant materials to consider are included on the links below to help in deciding placement, color, fragrance, and aesthetic appeal for your own habitat project.  .

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Appropriate Herbs for attracting bees & butterflies

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Basil, Bee Balm, Borage, Catnip, Cornflower, Dill, Echinacea, Evening Primrose, Fennel, Goldenrod, Horehound, Hyssop, Lavender, Parsley, Poppy, Thyme, Sage

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Appropriate ornamentals & flowers for attracting bees & butterflies

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 Bachelor's Button, Black-Eyed Susan, Butterfly Bush, Clematis, Coreopsis, Dame's Rocket, Foxglove, Goldenrod, Heliotrope, Hydrangea, Lantana, Larkspur, Mexican Hat, Plumbago, Rose of Sharon, Salvia, Sweet William, Zinnia