During long summer months, flower gardens are lush and beautiful; but they can also be purposeful! The flowers you choose to incorporate in your outdoor spaces can attract beneficial insects, or repel the more damaging ones. With a little thought and preparation, and the help of the floral experts at Campbell’s Flowers, you can create a flower garden or landscape that is far more than just pretty.

Did you know?  Butterflies love nectar. Although every species of butterfly has flowers they prefer, in reality, they will show up around any nectar-rich flower garden. Butterfly gardens need plenty of sunshine and access to water, as well as a spot sheltered from the wind. Set out some bright daisies, asters, goldenrod, and sunflowers, and you are sure to see the butterflies begin to appear. You may also wish to try a butterfly bush, clover, thistles, lavender or milkweed.

At first, attracting bees to your yard may not seem like a very smart move. However, bees play an important role in our ecosystem, and their pollination is necessary for producing our food supply. Experts realize that we desperately need these industrious insects to keep the balance of nature. Unfortunately, the bees are quickly disappearing, and they need our help. By including bee-friendly plants and flowers in your flower garden this summer, you will help them thrive. Bees enjoy many of the same flowers as butterflies do – asters, goldenrod, daisies, and snapdragons are excellent choices for bee-friendly gardens.

Natural Insect Repellent: Certain plants are especially useful in keeping unwanted insect visitors at bay. Mums are known to repel ants, beetles, and roaches, while petunias will guard against aphids and worms that will attack vegetable gardens. Many herbs, such as lavender, mint, and rosemary are utilized to keep mosquitoes away. And the essential oil that is produced from lemongrass is used to make citronella candles. 

There are countless varieties of flowers you could select for your flower garden or outdoor patio this summer. By choosing carefully, you can create a summer landscape that is both beautiful and purposeful. Ask the floral designers at Campbell’s Flowers for assistance in planning your Pueblo garden, and prepare to enjoy nature in a whole new way.