Bee Seva

		Basil, 6 varieties, 100 seeds of each Basil Seed Package includes one package of each of the following varieties: African, Genovese, Greek, Kilimanjaro, Sweet & Thai. $12.75
		Burdock, Takinogawa, 200-300 seeds per packet A special, late-variety burdock that is rich in flavor. It is the most popular variety in Japan. Mature plant can reach 3 feet in height. Roots can be harvested in 4-5 months if planted in spring. Cut root into slivers and stir-fry. The flowers are very attractive to bees and butterflies. $3.49
Scrophularia nodosa		Figwort, organic, 300 seeds Figwort has tiny flowers that bloom for months and months. It is hardy at least to zone 7 and is very easy to grow. It is much loved by bees and is a powerful medicinal herb, working mainly on the lymphatic system. It is both a parasiticide and blood cleanser and can be taken internally or used topically as an ointment for skin diseases. $3.75
		Mint Seeds, 6 species, 100 seeds each Mint Seed Pack includes approximately 100 seeds of each of the following six species: Korean, Agastache rugosa Licorice, Agastache foeniculum Mayan, Lippia dulcis Mountain, Pycnanthemum virginicum Peppermint, Mentha piperita Spearmint, Mentha spicata $12.75

Cross-referenced Index of Herb Names

Hybridization of plants to suit the whims of gardeners has resulted in the proliferation of plants that lack both the nectar and pollen necessary for bees and butterflies. Add to this the catastrophic impact of genetically modified crops, herbicides, and pesticides, and we are today faced with a global food crisis that, if not corrected, will not only result in widespread famine but also the loss of fruit, vegetable, and nuts for consumption by humans and others, leaving us to forage on grains.

What we can do to reverse recent trends is to plant flowers that are high in the nutrients needed by our pollinators and to plan this activity so that there is steady flowering and therefore constant availability of flowers from very early in the season until late into fall and even winter. To the extent possible, it is better to use heirloom varieties or native species because these would be favored by our hard working bees and gorgeous butterflies.

Be sure to put water near the plants so the pollinators have enough to drink and make sure the water is not too deep or treacherous so that the bees and butterflies have safe places to land while drinking.

 

Plants for Butterflies on this Site