Focus on Irish-Friendly Flowers
Choose plants that bloom from spring through autumn so pollinators always have food available.

Excellent May Flowers for Dublin Gardens

Good choices for Dublin’s climate include:

• Lavender — loved by bees and easy to grow in sunny spots
• Foxglove — excellent for long-tongued bees
• Allium — attractive to many pollinators
• Cornflower — great nectar source
• Native wildflowers like bird’s-foot trefoil, red clover, and self-heal

For small Dublin gardens or balconies, even pots filled with herbs such as thyme, chives, rosemary, and mint can attract large numbers of bees.

Add Water and Shelter
Pollinators need more than flowers.

Simple Habitat Ideas

• A shallow water dish with pebbles for insects to land on
• A small log pile or uncut corner for solitary bees
• A bee hotel in a sunny, sheltered spot
• Dense shrubs or hedges for wind protection

In Dublin’s breezy conditions, sheltered sunny areas are especially valuable for bees.

Avoid Pesticides

Even “bee-safe” sprays can disrupt pollinator behaviour. Instead:

• Hand-pick pests where possible
• Encourage natural predators like ladybirds
• Accept a little plant damage as part of a healthy ecosystem

Mow Less Often
No-Mow May has become popular across Ireland because letting lawns flower naturally provides nectar for bees.

What a Pollinator-Friendly Lawn Looks Like

Plant for Continuous Bloom

Aim for:

• Spring: crocus, pulmonaria, fruit blossom
• Summer: lavender, salvia, cosmos
• Autumn: sedum, asters, ivy flowers

That continuous food supply supports pollinators throughout the season.

Helpful Irish Resources

• All-Ireland Pollinator Plan — practical guides tailored to Irish gardens
• Bord Bia Gardening Guides
• National Biodiversity Data Centre Ireland