From Homes and Gardens · · 1m 20s
Bees Swarm To Goldenrod In October
Goldenrod blooms in October to feed bees and support their winter survival.
In brief
Goldenrod blooms in October to feed bees and support their winter survival. Goldenrod provides nectar and pollen for bees in fall, helping them build winter reserves. Originally reported by Homes and Gardens.
Why Bees Seek Out Goldenrod
Goldenrod attracts bees with late-season blooms and abundant nectar and pollen.
“Goldenrod produces masses of tiny flowers packed into its showy plumes, giving bees access to a lot of nectar and pollen without having to travel from plant to plant.”
Goldenrod's Appeal
Goldenrod blooms as summer nectar sources fade, providing critical food for bees before winter.
“Goldenrod produces masses of tiny flowers packed into its showy plumes, giving bees access to a lot of n”
Native Plant Benefits
Goldenrod is a keystone species for over 50 types of native bees, including leafcutter and longhorn bees.
“goldenrod is a keystone species that has evolved alongside over 50 types of specialist native bees, including leafcutter, longhorn, mining, carpenter, and sweat bees.”
Fall Nectar Importance
Nectar provides bees with energy, while pollen supplies protein for growth and reproduction.
“Nectar provides bees with energy, while pollen supplies protein and other nutrients they need for growth and reproduction”
Bumble Bees and Winter
New queen bumble bees use late-season flowers to build winter energy reserves for spring colony establishment.
“New queens are among the bees taking advantage of late-season flowers to build the energy reserves they'll need to survive the winter.”
Types of Goldenrod
Fireworks Goldenrod grows 3-4 ft tall and needs space, while Solidago sphacelata 'Golden Fleece' is compact for borders.
“Fireworks Goldenrod, available from Nature Hills, grows to around 3-4 ft (91-121cm) tall and 2-3 ft (61-91cm) wide.”
Plant Pairings
Goldenrod pairs well with asters for continuous nectar and pollen throughout fall.
“Together, goldenrods and asters can provide a succession of nectar and pollen when much of the garden is winding down.”
Bird and Insect Benefits
Goldenrod seedheads feed birds, and standing stems provide overwintering sites for bees and insects.
“When left in place, goldenrod seedheads are an important food source for birds, while the standing stems offer overwintering sites for native bees and other beneficial insects.”
Native Plant Finder
Use the National Wildlife Federation's Native Plant Finder to find species native to your ZIP code.
“Use the National Wildlife Federation's Native Plant Finder to find species native to your ZIP Code.”
What To Shop
Golden Fleece Goldenrod and Bee Cups support pollinators in October gardens.
“Golden Fleece Goldenrod, available from Garden Goods Direct, reaches heights of up to 1-2ft (30-61cm).”
At a glance
Goldenrod provides nectar and pollen for bees in fall, helping them build winter reserves.
