Best Plants for Bees in NSW: A Seasonal Guide for Beginners

Why Plant Choices Matter for Bees

Bees rely on nectar and pollen throughout the year. Choosing the right plants in your garden or backyard can:

Boost honey production
Support colony health
Provide a continuous food source through seasonal changes

For NSW beginners, planting a mix of native and garden plants ensures bees have reliable forage year-round.

Seasonal Planting Guide for NSW

Spring (September–November)

Native Plants: Grevillea, Bottlebrush (Callistemon), Kangaroo Paw
Garden Plants: Lavender, Rosemary, Basil, Sunflowers, Roses
Tips: Focus on early bloomers to help colonies build strength after winter.

Summer (December–February)

Native Plants: Eucalyptus, Melaleuca, Hakea
Garden Plants: Sage (Salvias), Thyme, Borage, Coriander, Roses
Tips: Provide shade and water during heatwaves; bees are most active in early mornings.

Autumn (March–May)

Native Plants: Banksia, Grevillea, Callistemon
Garden Plants: Fennel, Marigold, Lavender, Sunflowers, Roses
Tips: Help colonies store honey for winter by planting late-flowering species.

Winter (June–August)

Native Plants: Native Ginger, Pittosporum, Snowy Mountains Gum
Garden Plants: Winter-flowering Pansies, Violas, Camellias
Tips: Even in winter, bees need pollen; plant wind-protected spots to encourage foraging.

Top 10 Bee-Friendly Plants for NSW Beginners

Grevillea
Bottlebrush (Callistemon)
Lavender
Rosemary
Eucalyptus
Borage
Banksia
Sage (Salvias)
Thyme
Kangaroo Paw

Note: Add roses in spring, summer, and autumn for extra nectar and pollen.

FAQs – Planting for Bees in NSW

Q1: Do native plants produce more nectar than garden plants?
Native plants are often better adapted to local conditions and can provide consistent nectar and pollen throughout the year.

Q2: How many different plants should I grow?
Aim for at least 5–10 species with staggered flowering times to ensure a continuous food source.

Q3: Can I plant in small suburban gardens?
Yes. Even pots with herbs like rosemary, thyme, lavender, or salvias can provide valuable forage.

Q4: Do bees need water in winter?
Yes, they still need water. Provide shallow, pebbled containers in sheltered areas.

Q5: Should I avoid pesticides?
Absolutely. Avoid spraying flowering plants; use bee-friendly pest control methods.

Planting a bee-friendly garden in NSW is one of the most effective ways to support your colonies and boost honey production. By combining native and garden plants with a seasonal strategy, beginners can create a thriving environment for their bees.

Next steps: Combine this planting guide with our Spring Beekeeping Checklist and Essential Beekeeping Equipment Guide to ensure your hive thrives year-round.