Pollinating insects flock to plants gardeners might think of as ‘weeds’

Pollinating insects, including bees and butterflies, are attracted to common urban plants often considered 'weeds'. An eight-year study found that autumn-blooming common ivy is the most visited by these insects due to its rich pollen and nectar.

The findings highlight the importance of these often-overlooked plants in supporting pollinator populations.

The study was conducted as part of the UK Pollinator Monitoring Scheme, which involves citizen scientists recording insect visits to flowers during 10-minute surveys.