I love pollinators and so should you!

Spring has sprung and it’s time to spend more time outside, whether it’s going to the park or sitting on the porch. What’s a nice sight in spring? Blooming flowers! Spring represents new life and growth from the cold and (sometimes) barren winters. If you’re planning on enjoying the sights of beautiful flowers this spring and summer, try planting native and/or drought-resistant pollinator-friendly flowers in your garden, or even just a small patch in your yard. 

What kind of flowers should I plant?

Native wildflowers are a great option to plant in your yard. Not only do they look nice, but they are also adapted to the area so they require minimal effort. Perennial wildflowers grow back every year, so you won’t even have to replant them. They start off growing slowly and may not bloom the first year, but after that, you should see them grow strong! 

Ideally, you plant wildflowers in March or April depending on the weather, but go ahead and give it a go and you may still see them grow! If you miss this window, planting seeds in the fall is also an ideal time and you will see them in the next spring. 

What are pollinators?

Pollinators are animals that move pollen from one flower to another flower. There are many kinds of pollinators, most notably bees, but others include birds, bats, butterflies, beetles, and more. 

Why do pollinators matter?

Pollinators are super important for growing food and biodiversity. When pollen is moved between flowers of the same species, it fertilizes them and leads to the growth of fruit and seeds. This is important for the survival of the plant species themselves and for those who benefit from them, like us! We use plants for food, drinks, fibers, species, and more, and without pollinators, we wouldn’t have any of those things!

What’s happening to pollinator populations?

You may have heard about the endangerment of bees, but other pollinators are also in trouble. In the U.S., more than 70 species of pollinators are endangered or threatened. The built environment (houses, roads, buildings, etc.) has drastically reduced habitats for plants and therefore pollinators. Pesticide use is also dangerous to pollinators and can result in death if they come in contact. Additionally, pollinators that don’t hover use flowers as resting places so they can feed and regain strength. Without enough pollinator plants, they don’t know where to safely land, they lack food, and lose strength, endangering their lives.

What can you do? 

Plant pollinator-friendly plants! Not only will your yard look beautiful, it will be abuzz with animal activity! Other things you can do are install houses for bats and bees, provide salt licks for butterflies, water for all animals, and reduce your pesticide use. Additionally, you can get involved with local organizations that protect pollinators and buy pesticide-free grown food. 

Pollinators are essential animals in our world and need your help!