There are simple steps
anybody can take to make their own backyard more friendly to pollinators.
Why should you create a
pollinator’s paradise?
In short, some pollinator
populations are currently under threat, especially bees. Pollination is vital
to our food supply and ecosystem. We can all be part of the solution with a few
simple steps!
One: Thoughtfully
plant a variety of native flowers and plants.
Planting native and
non-invasive plants is key. There are many species of invasive plants which
have a negative effect on our ecosystems. When possible, invasive species
should be identified quickly and removed. Always check your labels and ask for
scientific names of plants to be sure you have native varieties. Invasive
species out compete and overgrow native plants, and are often introduced to
landscapes as ornamentals. Some examples of invasive species to watch out for
in Idaho might be purple loose-strife or salt cedar. Learn more about invasive plants here.
When it comes to flowers, it
is also best avoid wild flower mixes.
Tip: Look for flat faced
flowers, rather than ruffled, double layer petals, as these are more
approachable to bees and butterflies.
Your thoughtful planting
should consider visual impact on pollinators. It might be good idea to choose an
area specific to your pollinators, and plant a swath of plants there. Or, paint
the whole yard in flowers and native plants! As long as bees, birds, moths or
butterflies can see your blooms easily, they’ll stop by. Be sure to plant a
variety of plants, so that your flowers do not bloom all at once. This provides
pollen to bees and butterflies for a longer period of time, ensuring they have
food for the duration of their lifespan.
Tip: Variety can apply to
color, species, shape, height, and more! The more options pollinators have, the
more likely they are able to find something they like, at any stage of life.
Two: Provide
water for pollinators.
Birdbaths and water features (in every season) are great for birds, bees and butterflies. It’s important to monitor standing
water, especially during the warm mosquito breeding season. Be sure to change
out water in birdbaths 2-3 times a week. More details here.
Three: Create
spaces for shelter.
Bees need spaces to create their homes, whether it be up high or down low! Be sure to leave ground space
as native bees are solitary and dwell near the ground. Nesting sites might
include dead wood or even messes of twigs and grass on the ground. These can
serve as habitable spaces for bees, and even provide overwintering protection.
Another consideration is mulching. If there is too much mulch, bees are unable
to penetrate the surface for shelter on the ground. Tip:Leaving bare ground or using
leaf cuttings or compost in a lighter layer will provide access and protection.
Four: Feed the
birds, bees and everything in between.
Provide seed for birds by
leaving seed heads and stalks intact for habitat and food to birds and
overwintering insects.
When planting, include a few
plants which support larvae and adult insect pollinators. It is always best to
consider the lifespan of insects and other pollinators, as they may have a food
source for one stage of life, but not another. For example: monarch
caterpillars only eat milkweed. Without this food source, there is no butterfly
to become a pollinator! Here's how to optimize your yard.
Weed your garden by hand
often. Limit your use of pesticides.
Pesticides and herbicides can end up killing off beneficial pollinators or
insects that are vital pest controllers themselves. In the end, it is best to
use as little pesticides or herbicides as possible. Instead, work toward
maintaining your soil, and creating a healthy landscape overall, as this is the
best way to keep pests or weeds at bay.
Tip: Add compost in the spring,
but remember to leave room for ground dwelling bees. Plant species which require
less water together. If plants require more water, group them together so they
can be watered efficiently.
There are so many approaches
you can take to make your backyard pollinator preferred. Here's some links:
Bee Habitat - UIdaho Extension
Idaho Pollinator Protection Plan
Bee Habitat - UIdaho Extension
Idaho Pollinator Protection Plan
Choose one, and get started today!