Procrastinating?
The big flocks of monarch left a month or so ago, but every couple days I see a straggler. I suppose they’re late bloomers, one of nature’s ways to ensure survival. Some hatch early, some late, many in between. I was surprised when I saw a monarch early last week. I was even more surprised to see one both Saturday and Sunday.
Luckily, I plant late bloomers and leave bolting brassicas in the garden just for the pollinators. I have a very large patch of broccolini that is blooming profusely. It’s constantly covered in bees and the occasional late monarch. Sadly, the tithonia that the monarch are most fond of, got killed by the frost last week. Perhaps I should consider a plant or two of it in a sheltered location for these procrastinating monarchs.
Are you still seeing butterflies and bees in the garden? What do you have blooming for them? Any great late season or cold tolerant plants for pollinators?
Filed under Around the Garden, Beneficial, Insects, Wildlife | Comments (3)
Susy, there’s nothing in my garden for the butterflies and I really didn’t see any this summer. Well, I did see the white cabbage moths but I wouldn’t consider them beneficial to the garden. We had our first killing frost a couple days ago. It was practically two weeks behind schedule. Now we are in the 30s every night. It’s time to completely close up gardening for this year. The water tanks have been drained and harvesting is done. Now it’s time to kick back, relax, and start planning for next February when seed starting begins.
Have a great frosty Fall Maine day.
to Nebraska Dave's comment
My bees are still active, but there is not much out there for them to eat now. I’ve heard that they’ll travel up to two miles from home, so they must be finding something to eat somewhere!
Joan
to Joan's comment
Got close to a frost this weekend but luckily nothing happened! Monarchs are still around somewhat but mostly seeing sulphurs, gulf frittilaries, and others. I started raising monarchs this year and had a couple eclose over the weekend and had to let them wait until it warmed up enough outside for them to fly before I released them.
Everything is wonky this year.
to Misti's comment