Drought reduces flower quality, harming pollinator attraction and reproduction
Drought-stressed plants redirect growth to roots and close stomatal pores, resulting in fewer flowers that are smaller, shorter-lived, and altered in scent and colour. These flowers produce less nectar and pollen, making them less attractive to pollinators and reducing seed and fruit production. The University of Cambridge notes that over time, reduced pollinator rewards lead to smaller pollinator populations the following year, creating a negative cycle that may result in local plant and insect extinctions. The institution states that drought-tolerant plants with features like succulence, deep roots, and tube-shaped flowers—such as lavender—maintain better floral rewards, and recommends growing these species, watering carefully, and providing water sources for pollinators.
