Best Flowers by Season to Help UK Bees​

Bees are vital pollinators for many plants and crops in the UK, but they need our help. One of the easiest and most effective ways to support them is by planting nectar-rich flowers throughout the year. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to plant for each season, including when to sow or plant each variety so you can create a bee haven all year long.

Spring & Summer Blooms

Spring:

Plant in autumn or early spring (Feb–March)

Top picks:

  • Crocus – Early nectar source, ideal for queen bees.
  • Pulmonaria (Lungwort) – Great groundcover with rich nectar.
  • Hellebores – Long-flowering and early blooming.

Tip: Autumn planting ensures strong early spring blooms.

Summer:

Plant in spring (March–May)

Top picks:

  • Lavender – A bee favourite, best in full sun.
  • Foxglove – Tall, stunning, and perfect for bumblebees.
  • Echinacea (Coneflower) – Long-lasting and rich in pollen.

Tip: Water well during dry spells to maintain nectar levels.

Autumn & Winter Blooms

Autumn:

Plant in spring or early summer (April–June)

Top picks:

  • Sedum (Ice Plant) – Late bloomer, full of nectar.
  • Michaelmas Daisy (Aster) – Keeps bees buzzing into October.
  • Japanese Anemone – Shade-tolerant and long flowering.

Tip: Deadhead flowers to encourage longer blooming periods.

Winter:

Plant in autumn (Sept–Nov)

Top picks:

  • Mahonia – Evergreen with spiky yellow flowers bees love.
  • Winter Honeysuckle – Sweetly scented and irresistible to bees.
  • Snowdrops – Small but crucial for winter pollinators.

Tip: Plant bulbs early enough to establish before frost.

Bee the Change

By planting a variety of seasonal, bee-friendly flowers at the right times of year, you can provide a vital food source for pollinators all year round. Even a small garden or balcony can make a big difference—every bloom counts in helping protect the UK’s bee population.