Pollinator Garden

Make a lively patch that feeds bees, hoverflies and butterflies while giving you useful herbs for the kitchen. Combine open, single flowers such as borage and lavender with herbs allowed to bloom, then enjoy the extra colour and gentle hum through summer. It suits a border, allotment edge or sunny corner and brings a softer, more wildlife-friendly feel to productive growing.

What to grow in a Pollinator Garden

How to design it

Choose a sunny, sheltered area and plant in generous drifts rather than isolated single plants, so visiting insects can forage efficiently. Put taller herbs and flowering plants at the back or centre, with lower thyme spilling over an edge. Group chives, sage, oregano and dill nearby, leaving room for borage and lavender between them. Keep mint in a large pot sunk into the bed or placed beside it, as it spreads enthusiastically. Include a shallow dish of water with pebbles for safe landing spots, and leave a small untidy corner of stems and seedheads over winter.

Care through the season

Water new plants during dry spells until rooted, then water pots whenever their compost is drying out. Snip herbs regularly for cooking, but allow some stems to flower from late spring onwards. Deadhead only where you want a longer display, leaving plenty of blooms intact. Cut back faded herb growth in late winter, not autumn, so stems can provide shelter. Avoid spraying flowers when insects are active.

Tips

Choose single, open-faced flowers over densely double blooms, as their nectar and pollen are easier to reach. Aim for something in flower from spring until autumn. A nearby sunny seat makes this a particularly rewarding garden to use, while regular harvesting of herbs keeps the planting productive.

Planning a Pollinator Garden: frequently asked questions

How do I design a pollinator garden?

Choose a sunny, sheltered area and plant in generous drifts rather than isolated single plants, so visiting insects can forage efficiently.

How do I care for a pollinator garden through the season?

Water new plants during dry spells until rooted, then water pots whenever their compost is drying out.

What are some tips for a pollinator garden?

Choose single, open-faced flowers over densely double blooms, as their nectar and pollen are easier to reach.

General planning ideas for UK gardens; adjust plant choices to your space and local conditions. Page updated 19 Sep 2026.