Due to the vast decline in pollinators worldwide, it is imperative that we as humans make a concerted effort to protect and encourage pollinators. Pollinators not only include the 20,000 species of bees, but butterflies, moths, wasps, beetles, and bats. These pollinators are crucial to the growth of fruit, vegetables and many nuts, as well as flowering plants.
There are intermingling reasons for the population decline
of pollinators. Farming with pesticides exposes the pollinators, as well as
parasites and pathogens. It is also important to leave some land for
wildflowers and cover crops that feed the pollinators. Additionally, climate
change changes the territories of plants and pollinators.
To encourage pollinators in home landscapes, planting a
variety of plants and flowers desirable to them is necessary. In my garden, I
am replacing an old garden bed with a “banquet” of pollinator favorites. These
will include: Liatris (Blazing Star
and Gayfeather), Echinacea (purple cone flower), Salvia (Garden Sage, Brazilian Blue Sage, common sage). Coreopsis (tickseed), Phlox caespitosa (phlox), Agastache (Butterfly weed, Bee Balm,
Hyssop, Hummingbird Mint) and a Buddleia
(Butterfly Bush).
Our pollinators promote the growth of the food supply in the
world. Without them and recognizing their importance, the pollinators face extinction.
It is of absolute importance and necessity to address and educate ourselves in
the protection and encouragement of pollinators