What Potted Plants Can I Grow Without Attracting Bees?

If you're worried about attracting bees, I'd recommend going for plants that don’t bloom. Leafy greens like lettuce, spinach, bok choy, and swiss chard are great choices since you can harvest them before they flower. Root vegetables like radishes, carrots, and potatoes also work, but remember to remove any flowers that pop up. For herbs, just be diligent about snipping off immature flowers before they bloom, or else you might have to cut the plant altogether and dry the leaves instead. If you're looking at decorative plants, flowers are a no-go since they exist to attract bees. Instead, consider plants with interesting leaves; just keep an eye on them as some will try to flower too.

You might want to consider growing corn (maize), as it's wind-pollinated and doesn't rely on bees. Just keep in mind that you'll need a few plants together for effective pollination—around 6 to 9. Not sure how it works in pots or on a balcony, but it could be an option! Hand-pollination might also be a way to go if you’re concerned about needing so many plants.

I'm in a different climate, but I’d avoid flowering plants altogether. Instead, focus on those with striking leaves—like Cordyline, which thrives in tropical areas. For produce, just remember that all fruits come from flowers, so it’s safer to stick with veggies or herbs. Some veggies need more space than others, though, so you'll want to look into what works best for smaller areas.