Frank Morton teaches that “when you increase the diversity of an ecosystem you enhance its ability to maintain itself and to resist perturbation.” One way to attract and maintain a diverse population of beneficial insects and pollinators is to sow this mix of annuals, biennials and perennials. Instead of resorting to toxic sprays, invite hover flies, ladybugs, lacewings, parasitic wasps, tachnids, spiders, minute pirate bugs, damsel flies and big-eyed bugs and let them devour the “bad” bugs! Something in the mix will be blooming from spring through fall.
Addressing concern over neonicotinoids and their deleterious effects on pollinators, we have designed our beneficials mix to contain only organic seed, ensuring that no neonicotinoids were used in seed prep, plant growth or after-harvest treatment. Consisting of anise hyssop, bee balm, borage, calendula, California poppy, cilantro, dill, fennel, mustard, parsley and phacelia, this mix will be sure to please a diverse abundance of insect helpers.
Should any variety become unavailable we will substitute one with similar efficacy. You can look up the specific varieties in your mix by lot number here. Sow in spring as a hedgerow in a well-prepared weed-free seedbed close to the garden in full sun. Our A-size packet sows about 14 sq ft. Especially attractive to pollinators.
This item is certified organic
5804
Beneficials Mix
- Organic
Additional Information
Mixes
Exact components will vary according to availability; click here for current list of varieties in each mix (posted in mid-January).
Flowers
All flowers are open-pollinated except where noted.
Days in parentheses after a variety indicate days to first bloom.
Germination Testing
For the latest results of our germination tests, please see the germination page.
Our Seeds are Non-GMO
All of our seeds are non-GMO, and free of neonicotinoids and fungicides. Fedco is one of the original companies to sign the Safe Seed Pledge.
This item is certified organic