Pollinator Garden Pattern No. 10

Overview

These two plants are very compatible. They have a mounding growth habit and cover the ground by mid-June suppressing weed seed germination. They have a beautiful, textural look that can enhance many parts of the garden. The narrow, flat, dense foliage of the Allium contrasts the small. Round, tightly clustered foliage of the Calamintha. In late July the Allium will be half way through its bloom time and will be joined by clouds of white flowers as the Calamintha begins flowering. The maturing Allium seed heads look too nice mingling with the flowers of the Calamintha. You’ll find many emotional moments to introduce this plant pattern into your evolving garden styles. 

Stewardship

Do very little! Neither plant needs dead heading. The flowering stems of the Allium turn golden yellow going into September and the seed heads fold over looking like small brown moths. In March everything can be cut back with a string trimmer. Start cutting the plants from the top to the bottom, about 3 inches from the ground. Then you can mow everything with a mulching mower breaking the remnant plant material into smaller pieces.  

There’s your mulch!!  Plants have been self-mulching since they appeared on Earth!

BUTTERFLIES, BIRDS AND POLLINATORS

The Calamintha is covered by bees throughout its flowering time from late July until mid-October. The Allium is also visited by native bees, moths and butterflies. There is not much specific information. You can have a great time identifying and coming to know the various insects. Who they are and how they live. Have fun and share what you discover!!

*These garden plans can be followed explicitly or adjusted to meet individual needs, unlocking rich perennial landscape designs for individualization and creativity.