I'm juggling family life with two working parents and kids, so I need veggies that I can grow without too much hassle and that also support local wildlife. I currently grow peas, which are easy, and broccoli, which attracts white butterflies if I manage to pick them in time. I'm looking for other suggestions for low-maintenance veggies that can thrive on their own and benefit insects and critters, like caterpillars and butterflies. Any ideas?
3 Answers
Herbs are amazing for attracting insects while being pretty low-maintenance. Plus, they usually have a long harvest season. Try rosemary, sage, or lavender—they all flower and support pollinators. Just keep an eye on mint if you plant that since it can get a bit wild!
If you want easy wins, go for potatoes, peas, carrots, and maybe squash or sweetcorn. They’re fun for the kids to grow too! Also, cauliflowers can attract cabbage white butterflies, which might seem like pests, but they help out in the ecosystem. Just don't expect to get any cauliflowers for your dinner if that's the case!
Rocket (arugula) is a fantastic option! I planted some five years ago and let it bloom for the bees, who absolutely loved it. Now it comes back every year without me having to do anything! Nasturtiums are also great—they’re edible and attract pollinators. You might want to try those!
Haha, true! I'll keep that in mind. Thanks for the heads up!