Most people know what Annuals are—plants that grow from seed to flowers that set seed again but do not survive the winter. Most people know what Perennials are—plants that grow to maturity in one season and die down in the winter but do come back the following spring. There are even Biennials—plants that grow from seed the first year, then bloom and set seed the second year, but generally don’t return after that. But do you know what Ephemerals are?
What is An Ephemeral?
An Ephemeral is a plant, usually a perennial, that blooms very early in the season, sets seed, then dies back—usually by midsummer. You may know tulips, daffodils, crocus, hyacinths, and even coloumbines. Virginia natives like Virginia Bluebells, Spring Beauty, Trilliums, Dutchman’s Breeches, Bloodroot, May Apples, and Trout Lilies are also on the list. So why are ephemerals important in our gardens?
Why Ephemerals Are So Important
Ephemerals are one of the first sources of nectar and pollen for native pollinators, blooming long before regular annuals or perennials. They also help keep soil from erosion when few other plants are actively growing. If you are growing plants for pollinators, remember ephemerals. They’ll be available for the first pollinators—usually our natives, including bumblebees and mason bees.
When to Plant Ephemerals
Most ephemerals are best planted in the spring or fall. Summer is too hot for them, and they are “dormant” (asleep) in the winter.
Let’s Support Pollinators!
Remember, pollinators help you and me grow beautiful flowers and veggies. So this year, consider making your yard even more pollinator-friendly by planting Ephemerals.