Learn what insects are attracted to in the guest article from Garten-Center Meier.
"A white cut flower that blooms continuously, yes, continuously, from May until winter without special cultivation and is very suitable for almost any better floral arrangement," reported Möller's Deutsche Gärtner-Zeitung in 1894 about the Double Sneezewort Achillea ptarmica 'Schneeball'. Today, that assessment would not be quite so euphoric, as this moisture-loving historical variety stands out and does not combine the advantages that are now valued in yarrow: undemanding regarding soil and moisture, coupled with resistance to summer drought.
Nature gardeners and insects therefore love the Millefolium varieties and Filipendulina cultivars. Their striking flower heads are rich in nectar and pollen – and the less nutrient-rich the soil, the more stable they are. The fact that yarrow is back 'en vogue' is due to its natural charm and versatility. It's no surprise that it was named Perennial of the Year 2021 by the Association of German Perennial Growers.
What insects are attracted to
1. The initial visit to flowers occurs due to genetically fixed color preferences. Subsequently, bees and hoverflies learn to associate the color with a reward of nectar or pollen.
2. So-called "flower signals" include everything the flower produces that can be perceived from a distance, such as scent, color, CO2, and moisture.
3. Most insects have less dense color receptors than humans. Therefore, they can only see objects in color if they are either very large or very close.
4. Composites like yarrow have composite flowers that are combined into a functional unit, a so-called "pseudoflower".
Text: Carmen Hocker/Pflanzenfreund.ch
The gardeners at our partner Garten-Center Meier in Dürnten will be happy to assist you with any questions.