Pollinator Month is our reminder that every yard, balcony, and community space can make a measurable difference. When we plant with pollinators in mind, they respond.
It’s also important to realize that in addition to honeybees, bumblebees, native bees, butterflies, moths, flies and more also fill a role as pollinators in our landscapes and gardens.
To attract the greatest diversity of pollinators, we need to supply a source of food and water, as well as shelter.
Creating a pollinator-friendly garden does not require a complete overhaul of your landscape. Even a small space can make a meaningful difference when it includes nectar- and pollen-rich plants, a reliable water source, and simple shelter. The tips below will help you support pollinators whether you are planting a full garden, a modest yard, or a few containers.
How Pollination Works
When pollinators visit flowers to gather protein-rich pollen and energy-rich nectar, some of that pollen sticks to their bodies. As they move from one flower to the next, they transfer the pollen, which fertilizes the plant and helps it produce seeds and fruit.
Plant for Continuous Bloom
To attract and sustain pollinators, choose plants that provide pollen and nectar from spring through fall. A strong pollinator garden includes a mix of native plants, perennials, annuals, and herbs, so something is always in bloom throughout the season.
Native plants include Columbine, Native Bee Balm, Rocky Mountain Penstemon, and Sunset Hyssop.
Perennials with good sources of nectar and pollen include Asters, Black-eyed Susan, Columbine, Coneflower, Digitalis, Gaillardia, Joe-pie Weed, Mums, Penstemon and Sedum.
Planting in groups or clusters will bring a focus to your landscape and save pollinator energy searching for food.
Annuals such as Zinnias, Marigolds, and Lantana will help fill in any gaps in the seasonal bloom cycle.
Pollinator-friendly shrubs in your garden include Blue Mist Spirea, Lilac, Rose of Sharon, Weigela and Butterfly Bushes.
Beyond perennials, annuals and flowering shrubs, think about incorporating bulbs and herbs into your pollinator garden.
Herbs such as chives, basil, comfrey, mint and lavender.
Cover crops such as Crimson Clover attract pollinators and can be worked into your garden to improve the soil once it stops flowering.
In the fall, plant spring blooming bulbs such as crocus, hyacinths and tulips to support early foraging pollinators.
Gardening with pollinators in mind should include accessible water. This could be a shallow pot saucer or a birdbath. Place some flat stones in the birdbath or saucer so pollinators will have a place to land and drink safely.
Consider leaving a patch of the garden uncultivated for bumble bees that burrow. For wood and stem-nesting bees, hang a nesting block or place one on the fence or bench.
If you don’t have a traditional garden space where you can plant directly in the ground, you can plant in containers and place them on your patio or deck. Select a few different kinds of plants of varying heights, colors, and textures. Pollinators will find them.
Even a small pollinator garden will help support bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. With some thought and planning, you can create a destination that pollinators will be attracted to.
