BEE Happy Pollinator Blend
Spring Planting: this product will be shipped late April through May according to your hardiness zone.
Pollinators like bees, butterflies and hummingbirds play a critical part in our planet's biodiversity, the global food system and human health. Sadly some species of pollinators, and bees in particular, are seeing a decline in their populations. Here is where home gardeners like you can actually make a difference. By planting pollen and nectar rich flowers, you attract and provide food for these invaluable species. When planting a pollinator friendly garden, it is important to plant a sizeable mass of flowers so they are easily seen. Important to plant a large variety of flowers and also important to have a long succession of blooms to provide nectar throughout the season. Here we've designed 5 Pollinator Blends with all of these components in mind. An added bonus to these blends is that they are simply beautiful, with a wildflower, carefree vibe. Consider getting a neighbour on board to attract pollinators with you and begin a patchwork of pollinator gardens in your community.
This pollinator blend includes 'Goldstrum' Rudbeckia, 'Rubinzwerg' Helenium, 'Ritro' Globe Thistle & Astrantia major.
Sold as: Pkg of 10
Details
Growing Information
Upon Arrival:
It is very important to plant as soon as possible after you receive them. If it is necessary to store them for a short time before planting them, open the plastic bags. If the roots appear dry, soak them for a few hours in warm water. Store in slightly moist peat moss in a cold, but not freezing location until you can plant. They can also be placed in pots of soil if planting will be delayed for more than 2 weeks. Use any peat-based potting soil and pots with drainage holes.
Soak bare-root perennials in water for a few hours before planting. Unless otherwise specified, bare-root perennials are usually planted with the crown (where the shoots meet the roots) an inch below the soil surface. Firm soil gently to eliminate air pockets and water in well. Mark the area clearly since it may be a while before the plant shows itself.
Planting Rudbeckia: Plant 2 ft. apart in full sun to part shade in ordinary soil so tops of plants are level with the surface. Once established, Black-eyed Susies form large, dense clumps that will tolerate considerable drought. Deadheading spent blooms encourages a longer blooming season. Plants are easily divided in spring when they become crowded.
Planting Helenium:
Space 18-24" apart, with the growing tips just under the soil surface. Grow in average to poor soil that is well drained. It has very few requirements and adapts well to dry locations once established. Overly rich soils can cause plants to stretch and become top heavy. Pruning early in the season will reduce the need to stake but the flowering will be delayed. Helenium form underground rhizomes so will spread relatively quickly but can easily be divided to control the spreading. It is best to divide in spring or fall. Grows 3-4’ tall.
Planting Globe Thistle:
Choose a full sun, well drained area. Dig a hole large enough to accommodate the roots without bending them. Work soil around the roots, firm well and water thoroughly. Space 24 to 36 " apart. Remove globe thistle flowers when they fade to prevent excessive reseeding. Can be divided in early spring by carefully splitting a few offsets of the base of the established clump.
Planting Astrantia: Plant 1" deep & 18-24" apart. Thrives in full sun or part shade in rich, medium to wet, well-drained soils. Deadheading will prolong flowering and prevent self-seeding. Dividing clumps helps maintain vigour.