FIVE PERFECT PLANTS FOR POLLINATORS

1 Verbascum (‘Flush of White’) A cottage garden favourite with spikes of white flowers, verbascum can tolerate many soil types that other plants might struggle with. Plant now for blooms next May to June.

2 Hollyhocks ( Alcea cabaret) Impressive spikes of bold coloured flowers, growing over 120 centimetres high. A hardy perennial that flowers June to August.

3 Verbena Waterfall Lavender blue, purple and white tufts of tiny flowers that bring a soft feel to borders. Tends to spread to produce a carpet of blooms.

4 Primroses ( Primula vulgaris) One of the UK’S best-loved native blooms, heralding spring with clusters of pale lemon flowers. Perfect for shady areas. 5 Saffron Crocus Plant now for autumn blooming, and as the name implies, you can even gather strands of saffron from the flowers. All plants available from Suttons Seeds (suttons.co.uk)