Flowers bloom to attract pollinators

　　Aloe succotrina. Photo by Gerard O'Brien.
We often grow plants for their beautiful flowers but, unfortunately, it is not us they are trying to attract. It is for the insects and other pollinators that flower colour exists. Plants want to ensure pollination and subsequent fruit production and this is the main reason for flowers.
How do they do it?
Often a flower is a certain size, colour or shape to aid in pollination through wind, water or to attract a pollinator. These different flower traits are called pollination syndromes. The different types of pollination syndrome can be generalised but with all theories there are exceptions.
Which characteristic attracts who?
Some plants are not trying to attract pollinators, but use abiotic (wind or water) means of pollination. In general these flowers are often small, green and not showy, producing large quantities of pollen to be carried often over large distances. It is mainly the wind-pollinated plants that cause hay-fever problems.
Other plants rely on biotic (living) pollinators and often have to attract them from a distance. This can be through smell (good or bad) and colour among other means. Some of these have become very specialised to attract a certain organism, whereas others are very general, allowing many pollinators.
Behind these syndromes is a complex evolutionary process that has made the flower the way it is.
Cool-weather herbs to plant now include dill, fennel, cilantro, sage and thyme. Cool-season vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, kale, lettuce and mustard greens should be planted this month. Plant strawberries now for spring fruit. Plant herbs, vegetables and fruits in full sun for the best results.
November is typically a dry month, so water new plants frequently until they are established. Established trees and shrubs can be watered deeply once per week during dry periods.
Fertilize annuals, herbs and vegetables lightly each month. Do not fertilize grass, shrubs or trees until spring.
Provide trees and flower beds with 3 to 4 inches of mulch. Be sure to pull mulch a few inches away from stems and trunks to discourage rot. Mulch will keep plant roots warmer and will discourage weeds.