Plant For Early Pollinators

Spring is critical. Bees emerging in March and April have limited food sources, so early-blooming plants are particularly valuable. Some favourites include:

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Window Boxes & Balconies Can Buzzzzz

No garden? No problem. Urban bees depend heavily on balcony and window box blooms. A well-planted box can feed dozens of insects and bring your outdoor space to life.

How to make a bee-friendly plant box:

Depth: 15–20cm of good compost

Plant mix: Combine one upright plant, one trailing, and one herb.

Good choices: Lavender (dwarf), thyme, nasturtium, calendula, verbena

Watering: Regularly, especially in dry spells. Dehydrated plants mean bees are left hungry.

Bonus: Let herbs flower before harvesting. Bees adore thyme and basil in bloom.

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Skip The Pesticides

Even small doses of common garden sprays can harm bees. Instead, encourage natural predators like ladybirds, spot-treat aphids with soapy water, and accept a little leaf damage, it is natural. Always look for peat-free, organic composts, and when in doubt, don’t spray at all. A pesticide-free garden might seem small, but when multiplied across streets, it becomes a vital corridor for pollinators across London.

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Supporting Bees And Local Shops

West London is full of local options that support both pollinators and the community. Home and garden centres often stock native plants and peat-free compost, which is perfect for bee-friendly gardens. Local markets and independent florists are another great source. Try visiting the Chiswick Flower Market (check our magazine for monthly dates) and ask for UK-grown plants. Community plant swaps and school fairs are also a wonderful way to share seeds, cuttings, and gardening ideas while connecting with neighbours. Every time you request pollinator-friendly plants, you’re sending a message: bees matter, and local demand helps shape what’s available on our shelves.

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Collective Action, Big Impact

No single plant can save the bees, but dozens of gardens, balconies, and window boxes across London sure can make a difference. When whole streets are blooming, they create little highways of food that pollinators depend on.

Every flower counts!

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