Keep Florida Pollinators Blooming Into Fall

Florida’s growing season doesn’t slow down when summer begins to fade. In fact, late summer and fall are some of the busiest times for bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other beneficial pollinators. By planting nectar-rich flowers now, you can keep your garden blooming while providing an important food source for wildlife well into the cooler months.

Whether you’re creating a butterfly garden or simply adding more color to your landscape, the right plants can make a big difference.

Choose Heat-Loving Perennials

Many Florida-friendly perennials continue blooming through late summer and fall.

Excellent choices include:

• Pentas
• Firebush (Hamelia)
• Porterweed
• Blue Daze
• Salvia
• Mexican Heather

These dependable bloomers provide a steady supply of nectar while standing up to Florida’s heat and humidity.

Plant Florida Native Favorites

Native plants are well adapted to Florida’s climate and provide valuable habitat for local pollinators.

Consider adding:

• Native Milkweed
• Coreopsis (Florida’s State Wildflower)
• Blanket Flower (Gaillardia)
• Elliott’s Aster
• Goldenrod
• Beautyberry

These plants support butterflies, native bees, and other beneficial insects while requiring less maintenance once established.

Let Herbs Bloom

Flowering herbs are among the easiest ways to attract pollinators.

Allow a few stems to bloom on:

• Basil
• Rosemary
• Mint
• Oregano
• Thyme
• Chives

Their flowers provide nectar while adding fragrance and beauty to your garden.

Add Color with Annuals

Annual flowers provide continuous blooms during Florida’s long growing season.

Pollinator favorites include:

• Vinca
• Angelonia
• Pentas
• Zinnias
• Celosia
• Marigolds

Regular deadheading encourages many annuals to keep flowering for months.

Plant in Groups

Pollinators are naturally attracted to larger patches of color.

Planting several of the same variety together makes it easier for butterflies and bees to find nectar while creating a more dramatic display in your landscape.

Create a Pollinator-Friendly Habitat

Flowers are only part of the equation.

Help pollinators thrive by:

• Providing a shallow water source
• Including shrubs for shelter
• Planting a variety of flowers that bloom throughout the year
• Leaving some seed heads for birds
• Avoiding unnecessary pesticide use

Even a small garden or patio can become an important stop for pollinators.

Enjoy Florida’s Long Blooming Season

One of the biggest advantages of gardening in Florida is the extended growing season.

By combining flowering perennials, native plants, herbs, shrubs, and colorful annuals, you can enjoy continuous blooms while supporting pollinators from late summer well into fall and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions

What flowers attract butterflies in Florida?

Pentas, firebush, porterweed, salvia, native milkweed, zinnias, and blanket flower are all excellent butterfly favorites.

Are native Florida plants better for pollinators?

Yes. Native plants have evolved alongside Florida’s wildlife and provide important food and habitat for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.

Can herbs attract pollinators?

Absolutely! Flowering basil, rosemary, oregano, thyme, mint, and chives are excellent nectar sources for bees and butterflies.

Is it okay to plant pollinator gardens in August?

Yes! Florida’s warm climate makes late summer an excellent time to plant many perennials, shrubs, and annuals with regular watering.

How can I keep pollinators visiting my garden?

Choose a variety of plants that bloom throughout the year, provide fresh water, avoid broad-spectrum pesticides, and include native plants whenever possible.

Visit Us

Whether you’re creating a butterfly garden, planting Florida natives, or adding colorful annuals and tropical blooms, Lindley’s Garden Center has everything you need to create a landscape that’s beautiful for you and beneficial for local pollinators.

Lindley’s Garden Center
1232 Canal Street
New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168

Hours
Tuesday-Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Closed Mondays

Visit us today and let our knowledgeable team help you choose beautiful, Florida-friendly plants that will keep your garden blooming and buzzing through the seasons.