Quick Answer
For attracting pollinators, heirloom flowers like sunflowers, zinnias, and cosmos are ideal choices. These flowers offer a rich source of nectar and pollen, which are essential for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Plant a variety of these flowers to create a pollinator-friendly garden.
Choosing the Right Heirloom Flowers
When selecting heirloom flowers for pollinator attraction, consider plants that are rich in nectar and pollen. Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) are an excellent choice, as they can grow up to 12 feet tall and produce large, showy blooms. Plant sunflower seeds 1 inch deep and 6 inches apart, and expect to see blooms in as little as 60 days.
Maximizing Pollinator Attraction
To maximize pollinator attraction, plant a variety of heirloom flowers that bloom at different times. Cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus) and zinnias (Zinnia spp.) are excellent choices, as they bloom in late spring and early summer. Plant cosmos seeds 1/4 inch deep and 12 inches apart, and expect to see blooms in as little as 60 days. Zinnias can be direct sown in late spring, and blooms will appear in about 60 days.
Heirloom Seed Saving Techniques
When saving heirloom seeds, it’s essential to label and store them properly. Harvest seeds from mature flowers, and allow them to dry completely before storing them in a cool, dark place. For sunflowers, save the large, black seeds from the center of the flower head. For cosmos and zinnias, save the small, dry seeds from the seed head. Store seeds in paper envelopes or glass jars, and expect them to remain viable for 5-10 years.
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