Bees are big pollinators, carrying and dropping off the pollen that helps to keep Mother Nature chugging along

However, in recent times, there has been a worrying decline in our bee population, mainly due to a loss of habitat and the use of harmful chemicals in pesticides, including neonicotinoids.

In April, the EU announced a ban of non-neonicotinoids, meaning from 2019, they will not be used in pesticides on outdoor crops.

Now, Capital Gardens have compiled a list of the best bee-friendly plants for you to consider incorporating...

1 Lavender

You'll hear a buzz around those lilting lilac blooms as that warm, undeniable scent hits you. Lavender is especially ideal for pots and windows boxes if you do not have a garden.

2 Cosmos

If you're new to growing, you should sow outdoors now so you can watch their frothy leaves unfurl before the generous bloomer gives you bright, wide flowerheads right through until the autumn.

3 Salvia

The 'ornamental sage' is one of the most delicate looking of the bee-friendly bunch. Coming in all sorts of colours and heights, Salvia will look especially great in borders, courtyards and pots.

4 Echinacea

Flowering in late summer, the 'coneflower' has bright pink nodding heads. Adding excitement when the other elements of the garden are settling down, their dried seed heads provide food for birds, and adds structure in the winter.

5 Verbena

The leggy perennial reaches up to two metres high as it offers up those intricate clusters of tiny purple flowers. It is especially well suited to prairie planting and gravel gardens like the Echinacea, adding structure and beauty to the winter garden.

Tips courtesy of Capital Gardens