Native Pollinator Garden
The importance of pollinators cannot be overstated. They are responsible for the very food we eat. Unfortunately as our population grows and more land is cleared, more essential pollinator habitat is lost. This along with insecticide use are the leading causes of pollinator decline. Luckily, it is easy to give them a helping hand. Whether you have an apartment balcony or a whole backyard, you can do your part to reclaim it as pollinator habitat by planting pollinator friendly native plants. It’s easy, fun and incredibly rewarding.. Click below to learn how!
Go Native
Pollinators and native plants rely on each other and have evolved side by side for thousands of years. Many of the flashy flowers at your local nursery aren’t natives and worse, could be invasive. Do some research and create real habitat by choosing native varieties that pollinators in your area know and depend on.
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Start small. Pick an area in your yard that is just mulch or grass, preferably one that gets good sunlight. For your first foray, consider planting native wildflowers and perhaps a native perennial shrub for instant gratification. Choose plants that will flower in the different seasons and plant in groups of three. Watch how quickly the pollinators arrive! if you missed it, click on the button at the top of the page for a wonderful article on how to plant a pollinator garden.
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A lot depends on your space, the size, hours of direct sunlight, the other plants in the area etc. and of course there is personal preference. Whatever you decide, try to keep in mind that you are also building habitat so if you have the room consider planting some bushes or small trees with flowers for the pollinators and berries for birds and other wildlife.
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With the help of AI searches for native plants just became easier. Many nurseries will list their native plants online. Some nurseries specialize entirely in growing natives. Your state may even have a group whose website has a complete list. Wherever you go, ask if there have been any insecticides sprayed on the plants. You do not want to bring in a native only to poison whatever pollinators you attract!