New Forest Show pollinator planter - sponsored by Everton Nurseries

I have created this pollinator friendly planter in a rustic field trough which had previously been used agriculturally within the Forest.
Allowing a space for pollinators within your garden not only helps to support biodiversity and provide essential nectar but also attracts other wildlife and looks beautiful too.
Once this planter has been displayed at the New Forest and Ellingham Shows, it will be making its way to Oakhaven Hospice where it will become a permanent feature for both the pollinators and residents to enjoy.

Below are some details on the plants I have included:
Achillea millefolium (Yarrow)
The flowers of Achillea make a great landing pad for many pollinators and are loved especially by butterflies and short tongued bees. Starlings are also known to line their nests with the leaves of Achillea.

Leucanthemum vulgare (Ox – eye Daisy)
Known for attracting bees, it has nectar and pollen rich flowers. Ideal for use in cottage garden displays and grows naturally in many wildflower areas of the UK.

Erigeron karvinskianus (Mexican Fleabane)
This is an excellent choice for resilient garden planting as it is great for a dry garden in the sun. The pollinators love it too!

​Nepeta ‘Walkers Low’ (Catmint)
Especially loved by all the pollinating insects and neighbourhood cats. This variety has purple, lavender coloured flowers and a lovely mint aroma.

Pennisetum ‘Fairy Tales’ (Fountain Grass)
A hardy ornamental grass producing masses of plumes in late summer. Although this doesn’t have the flowers, this is a great grass for insects and other garden visits to take refuge in. It also looks good when it sways in the wind.

Salvia Amistad (Friendship Salvia)
With pollen rich flowers, the bees love Salvia. This Salvia is in the same family as the sage we enjoy as a herb.

Scabiosa (Pincushion Flower)
In beautiful shades of purples or pink the Scabious will flowers all summer long and is a favourite in cottage gardens. Loved by all the pollinating insects.

Verbena bonariensis ‘Lolipop’ (Vervain)
Another favourite with the pollinators. This variety of Verbena will flower all summer long and give that height and movement in the garden.