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

The Guardian reports: Citizen scientists on UK Pollinator Monitoring Scheme recorded insect visits to flowers during 10-minute surveys Ubiquitous urban plants often derided as “weeds” are the most attractive to pollinating insects.

The autumn blooms of common ivy, rich in pollen and nectar, are the most visited by insects including bees and butterflies, according to an eight-year study.

This environment story centres on the United Kingdom. Names and organisations mentioned in the coverage include UK Pollinator Monitoring Scheme and Ubiquitous.

Why it matters

Developments affecting the environment are closely tied to public health, economies and how communities prepare for change.

Key details

Location

United Kingdom · Europe

Reported by

The Guardian

First reported

14 Oct 2026, 12:30 IST

Key names

UK Pollinator Monitoring Scheme, Ubiquitous

Section

Environment

Sources

This is an independent summary. Read the full, original reporting from the publisher:

• The GuardianPollinating insects flock to plants gardeners might think of as ‘weeds’ 14 Oct, 12:30

Read the full story at The Guardian ↗

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