The concept of pollinator gardens is often overlooked and many don’t realize how beneficial pollinators are to our ecosystem. From an agricultural perspective, the loss of pollinators would be devastating – 35% of the world’s food crop relies on animal pollinators. Unfortunately, we are in the midst of a bee crisis mainly due to Colony Collapse Disorder, and many other pollinators are suffering due to misuse of chemicals, loss of habitat, and the spread of invasive plant and animal species. So how can we help turn things around? Whether you want to become a full blown beekeeper, or you just want to help your local pollinators thrive, a pollinator garden is a great step in the right direction. Here are some tips to get you started:
Plant in Full Sun in Large Patches
While it’s true some plants can grow in shady conditions, you must think about your audience. Bees and butterflies would much rather bask in the sunlight. Not to mention, your wildflowers will bloom more radiantly in full sun and will look more appealing. Plant large patches of plants rather than single plants. This makes it easier for pollinators to find and use your garden
Use a Wide Variety of Plants and Overlap Flowering Times
In order to attract a variety of pollinators you need to provide many different types of pollen and nectar resources. Even night-blooming flowers help support moths and bats. Pay close attention to flowering times. Pollinators will constantly search for new resources and you want them to be able to visit your garden from early Spring into late Fall. Choosing a variety of plants that bloom on an overlapping schedule from February to October will keep your pollinators coming back.
Include Native Plants
Plants native to your region are acclimated to the local climate, soil, and native pollinators. To give you an idea here are some examples that are native to many regions of the Unites States:
- Aster
- Bee Balm
- Black-eyed Susans
- Butterflyweed
- Clover
- Columbine
- Common Yarrow
- Coneflower
- Goldenrod
- Sunflower
- Thistle
Eliminate Pesticides and Herbicides
Using pesticides in your landscape can kill bad insects along with the beneficial ones. Even organic pesticides can have a harmful effect on our pollinators. Consider incorporating plants that attract beneficial insects for pest control. Did you know ladybugs and lacewings are natural predators of many insects, especially aphids and other sap feeders? You will also learn to appreciate the beauty of weeds considering most flowering weeds provide a very important food source – so skip the herbicides, too.
Provide Fresh Water
If you do not have a natural water source nearby, consider installing a birdbath with stones for the pollinators to stand on or a small water fountain. Almost any shallow water source will do.
Consider a Hummingbird Feeder as an Extra Nectar Resource
Artificial nectar is very easy to make at home: use four parts water to one part table sugar. Avoid the artificial red syrup they sell in stores. Clean the feeder regularly with warm soapy water to avoid mold buildup.
Always remember to be patient! It may take some time for pollinators to find your garden. Use this time to read and educate yourself about the local pollinators in your area. Get some guidebooks so you can identify new pollinators that visit your garden!
