wintertime does n’t mean the death of gardening , especially if you ’re look to defend bees .

Even in the cold months , there are flowers that can keep these vital pollinator buzzing happily .

This web log C. W. Post highlights eight exceptional flowers you may engraft to create a bee - friendly wintertime garden .

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1. Winter Heather

Winter Heather is a bouncy heyday that brings color to your garden even in the dusty months . Its pink and purple flower are not only visually trance but also provide indispensable ambrosia for bee when other flowers ca n’t .

This dauntless plant is sluttish to grow , requiring minimum care , and it thrives in well - drained stain . Its long bloom time of year insure that bees have a reliable nutrient source throughout wintertime .

take constitute wintertime heather along nerve tract or in rock gardens for a arresting ocular event .

Winter Heather

© Thrive

2. Hellebore

Hellebores , often known as the Christmas Rose , bloom when few other industrial plant do . Their delicate , nodding flowers come in a change of colors , including white , pink , and gullible , providing bee with much - need nectar .

These perennial plants are shade - tolerant and boom in rich , moist soil . They can lighten up a dull wintertime garden with their witching salad days . Planting hellebores under deciduous Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree can offer bees a sheltered dapple to forage .

3. Winter Jasmine

Winter Jasmine is a cheerful add-on to any wintertime garden , with its shiny yellow flush that seem before the leave of absence . This sturdy plant provides an early source of ambrosia for bee , helping them survive the colder months .

It flourish on wall or trellises , making it hone for adding vertical interestingness to your garden . With minimum maintenance required , winter jasmine is an excellent choice for busy nurseryman who still want to support pollinator .

4. Snowdrops

Snowdrops are among the first blossom to bloom as wintertime ebbing , signaling the hope of spring . Their delicate snowy blossoms are not only a joy to the eye but also an important nectar origin for bees wake from wintertime dormancy .

These bulbs are best planted en masse for a rug - like effect . wood anemone prefer shadowed spots with well - drained soil , making them perfect for forest gardens . Their former flush are a beacon of Leslie Townes Hope for both bees and gardener alike .

5. Mahonia

Mahonia is a striking evergreen shrub that produce bright yellow raceme of flower in winter . The flowers are a life line for bees seeking nectar when few other plants prime .

This plant ’s spiky leaves provide optical interest group even when it ’s not in blush . Mahonia is adaptable to unlike soil types and is perfect for contribute a splash of colour to shaded areas .

It ’s a hardy plant that requires little upkeep , making it a dandy choice for any winter garden .

Hellebore

© Swansons Nursery

6. Witch Hazel

Witch Hazel put up one of the most unusual flowers in the wintertime garden . Its yellow , spidery bloom sum up a tactile sensation of whimsy to unsheathed winter branch , attracting bees with their sweet odour .

Witch Hazel thrives in a variety of soils and is particularly striking when planted as a standalone specimen . Its fragrant flowers can bloom in the harshest weather , provide bees with vital nectar .

This plant is a conversation starter , sure to captivate anyone who see it .

Winter Jasmine

© UC ANR

7. Winter Aconite

Winter Aconite , with its sunny xanthous flowers , brings sunniness to any wintertime landscape . These flowers are among the first to bloom , providing bee with a important early source of nectar .

They organise a carpet of smart color when implant en masse . Winter Aconite boom in well - drain soil and partial wraith , making it ideal for under Tree .

Their cheerful blooms are certain to brighten up the dullest winter Clarence Day , offering both visual delight and essential sustenance for bees .

Snowdrops

© TrogTrogBlog

8. Cyclamen Coum

Cyclamen Coum is a delightful addition to any winter garden , with its heart - mould leave of absence and vivacious pinkish and purple flowers . This plant offer bee a valuable nectar generator during the frigid months .

It thrives in shady areas and can be planted under trees or shrubs . Cyclamen Coum is a low - alimony plant that spreads easily , creating a lush carpet of vividness . Its charming flowers and foliage add an enchanting contact to winter gardens .

Mahonia

© Urban Pollinators

Witch Hazel

© Pacific Horticulture

Winter Aconite

© | BYGL – The Ohio State University

Cyclamen Coum

© Pacific Horticulture