Photo – Neil Fedorowycz
Emily Tallis
GARDEN DESIGN
Weekend Project – Pollinator Planter
Pollinators need our help. Across the UK, many species are in decline, but the encouraging thing is this: even the smallest space can make a difference. Aptly the RHS National Gardening Week is encouraging people to be curious, and to connect to the world around them. Perfect timing then to turn our attention to nurturing pollinator-friendly corners…
A single container, thoughtfully planted, can become a valuable food source for bees, butterflies and other insects. A pollinator planter doesn’t need to be complicated, just a few thoughtful choices to make.
One of the easiest ways to build something that works, is to follow a simple thriller, filler, spiller approach:
- Thriller: a taller, structural plant
- Filler: mid-height, nectar-rich plants
- Spiller: something trailing to soften the edges
This creates a layered look while offering a variety of flower shapes for different pollinators to access.
Some reliable, pollinator-friendly choices:
- For bees: lavender, salvia, thyme
- For butterflies: verbena, marigolds, cosmos (a little later in the season, Echinacea and Helenium)
- For hoverflies and others: marjoram, dill, calendular.
Echinacea and Helenium are great choices for mid-late summer
Tips for building your planter
- Start with a window box with good drainage – our lightweight fibreclay troughs are ideal for sills and balconies
- Place a base layer of horticultural grit or broken terracotta to prevent waterlogging
- A high-quality peat-free compost mixed with slow-release fertiliser
- Select plants that will be happiest in the chosen location, and place before planting. (Just ask us in-store for help.)
- Keep an eye on watering and feeding throughout the summer.
A few simple tips
- Place your planter in a sunny spot.
- Water regularly, especially in warm weather
- Deadhead to keep flowers coming.
- Avoid pesticides, especially on open flowers
Planting inspiration
Small changes that make a big difference
A planter is a great place to start, but there are a few other simple ways to support pollinators in your space:
Let some areas grow a little wilder
If you have a lawn, try mowing less often and allowing flowering “weeds” like clover and dandelions to bloom. Even a small patch can become an important food source.
Rethink pests
Not every insect is a problem. Aphids, for example, are an important food source for hoverfly larvae. A balanced garden will often regulate itself if you give it the chance.
Be mindful with sprays
If you do need to intervene, avoid spraying open flowers and always follow label instructions carefully. Timing and restraint make a big difference.
Discover our online store – or better still pop into one of our stores. Our teams are always happy to help with any questions you might have.
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OUTDOOR PLANTS
