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Pollinators are an essential part of nature. They help flowers bloom, plants thrive, and food to grow. It is estimated that 35% of all food we eat and 75% of all flowering plants depend on pollinators. That is about one in every three bites of food we eat each day that we would not have if not for pollinators. Without them, essential plants wouldn't grow. Now that we understand their crucial role, let's explore who these pollinators are, what they do, and how we can support them.
Pollinators are creatures that help to move the pollen from the male anther of one flower to the female stigma of another. This pollination process allows the flowering plants to produce seeds, fruit, and the next generation of plants. Pollinators come in many forms, most of which you have probably seen at some point in your life: butterflies, birds, bats, moths, flies, beetles, wasps, small mammals, and most importantly, bees! When they visit the flowering plants to get their fill of nectar and pollen, they carry extra pollen on their bodies and deposit it in the next flower they visit. This helps the cycle of plants continue and helps crops to grow so we can turn it into food.
Unfortunately, pollinators are in trouble. Many species of pollinators are declining due to habitat loss, disease, parasites, environmental contaminants, pesticides, and climate change. With all these factors, these species are having a challenging time finding nectar and pollen to feed on.
The good news is, we can help!
Planting a pollinator garden is a wonderful way to help your local pollinators. Which may help with your own garden in return! To begin, identify the best plants for your pollinator garden. The ideal types of plants can differ based on location, but pollinators are generally drawn to native species. Researching which native plants in your region attract pollinators will provide the best results. There are many places where you can find out what native plants will attract the local pollinators. These native plants have had many years to evolve a relationship with the native pollinators. Native plants use a variety of strategies such as petal color, scent, UV light patterns and nectar guides to attract local pollinators. These features guide pollinators to the plant, encouraging them to feed on the nectar and pollen, thereby initiating the pollination process. In contrast, non-native plants are often less attractive and accessible to pollinators, potentially deterring their visits.
Another way you can help the local pollinators is by stopping or limiting your use of pesticides. While pesticides may help deter pests you do not want in your garden, it might also deter pollinators from visiting. Consider using an organic alternative or using the pesticide when the pollinators are less active.
When you set up your pollinator garden, you can group the plants together to make it easier for the pollinators to find them and spread the pollen. You can also set up areas nearby for the pollinators to get water or shelter. Once you observe which pollinators are stopping by your garden, figure out what type of habitat they like and see if you can accommodate them. Different pollinators are searching for food at various times of year. Diversify your garden by growing plants that bloom at different times of year to keep the buzz going all year long. By attracting local pollinators with a dedicated pollinator garden, the other plants in your garden may benefit from the increased pollination, leading to better growth and health.
Keep in mind a pollinator garden may not look like your regular garden, depending on the plants you choose. Consider sectioning this area off and putting a sign up to note it is a pollinator garden. This may even get your neighbors to ask about it. Sharing information about pollinator gardens and their environmental benefits is another fantastic way to support local pollinators. Encourage others to start their own pollinator gardens to spread the positive impact!
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