Nasturtiums are not only beautiful and easy to grow, but they also provide important food sources for various animals. Here, I will discuss the animals that eat nasturtiums and how they benefit from this plant.
1. Birds: Nasturtiums attract numerous bird species, including finches, sparrows, and hummingbirds. The bright and showy flowers of nasturtiums attract these birds, which feed on the nectar produced by the flowers. Hummingbirds, in particular, are known to be attracted to the tubular shape of the flowers and their sweet nectar. Birds also feed on the seeds of nasturtiums, especially when they mature and fall to the ground. These seeds provide a valuable source of food for birds throughout the year.
2. Bees: Nasturtiums are excellent plants for attracting bees, especially honeybees and native bees. Bees are attracted to the abundant nectar and pollen produced by the flowers. As they feed on the nectar, bees inadvertently transfer pollen from one flower to another, which helps in the pollination process. This is beneficial not only for the nasturtiums but also for other plants in the surrounding area that rely on bees for pollination.
3. Butterflies: Nasturtiums are also known to attract butterflies, such as the cabbage white butterfly and the painted lady butterfly. Butterflies are attracted to the bright flowers and feed on the nectar using their long proboscis. Nasturtiums serve as valuable food sources for adult butterflies, providing them with the energy they need for mating and reproduction.
4. Caterpillars: While nasturtiums are not typically a preferred food source for caterpillars, some species may still feed on the leaves. The caterpillars of the cabbage white butterfly, for example, may occasionally munch on the leaves of nasturtiums. However, it’s important to note that the damage caused by caterpillars is usually minimal and does not harm the overall health of the plant.
5. Beneficial insects: Nasturtiums also attract a variety of beneficial insects, including ladybugs and lacewings. These insects are natural predators of aphids and other garden pests. By planting nasturtiums in your garden, you can attract these beneficial insects and naturally control pest populations, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.
Nasturtiums are not only a beautiful addition to your garden, but they also play a vital role in supporting a diverse range of animal life. Birds, bees, butterflies, caterpillars, and beneficial insects all benefit from the nectar, pollen, seeds, and foliage provided by nasturtiums. By including nasturtiums in your garden, you can create a thriving ecosystem and contribute to the well-being of these animals.
