Make These Moves Now to Benefit Your Local Pollinators

Our planet’s pollinators are more at risk than ever before. Bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies are declining with each passing year. Given their vital role in crop development and ecosystem management, what can be done to assist pollinators? Is there anything the average homeowner can do to bring hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies into their own backyard?

This is the state of pollinators today and how you can encourage these necessary creatures to visit your plot of land, regardless of size or budget.

Pollinator Peril: Bee, Hummingbird, and Butterfly Populations Are Declining

Scientists believe the decline of pollinators is an underestimated figure. Climate change is cited as one of the main drivers of this decline. Habitat loss is considered another culprit. Many species of insects are dwindling, including fireflies, butterflies, honeybees, and beetles.

An alarming global decline of 20-40% is occurring across multiple pollinator species. Some species, such as bees and butterflies, are experiencing even greater losses. As habitats shrink, pollinators compete for nesting sites and resources. This is leading to unprecedented interactions and shifts in insect populations, as previously unrelated territories are forced to overlap.

The global conversation surrounding pollinators is ongoing. However, human industry is unlikely to slow down or accommodate these smaller species. Because of this, many homeowners and communities are taking matters into their own hands. By maintaining pollinator paradises in our own backyards, we encourage these vulnerable populations to recoup their lost numbers.

How to Benefit Pollinators in Your Own Backyard

While your actions may feel small, there are plenty of steps you can take to welcome pollinators to your backyard. Even adopting one of these techniques can increase pollinator populations in your local community and neighborhood.

Looking for some foolproof pollinator plans? Check out this guide and you’ll see more bees, birds, and butterflies dotting your landscaping in no time!

No Pesticides, Ever

There are countless reasons to avoid using harsh chemical pesticides on your property. Insecticides and products used in commercial agriculture are some of the primary culprits behind pollinator decline. Pesticides and herbicides can negatively impact pollinators, especially when used in significant amounts or over large areas.

However, how can you keep your veggies bug-free and your weeds controlled? Opt for pest-resistant plants and all-natural remedies. There are many chemical-free, DIY weed control substances you can whip up, as well as plenty of plants less susceptible to pests.

Don’t Wait to Mow

While some people prefer to wait until their lawn is longer before mowing, others may choose to mow more frequently based on personal preference or local guidelines. However, the longer your grass grows, the more likely it is for pollinators to take shelter within its blades.

Mowing earlier rather than later helps establish your lawn as a no-go zone for pollinators. Opt for consistency in your mowing habits rather than letting things get too wild.

Keep Things Natural

If mowing in general isn’t your thing, good news: keeping your landscaping natural benefits pollinators. You don’t need to leave your entire lawn overgrown to keep the birds and the bees happy. Designating a smaller portion of your yard as your wild, natural zone is often enough to increase your local pollinator population.

If it suits your style and landscaping, leave your lawn, shrubs, and trees untrimmed during the spring and summer months. As winter arrives, tidying up your landscaping should be more appropriate, as many pollinator species hunker down during cold weather.

Plant a Pollinator Garden

There are countless ways you can develop a pollinator garden, and for less money than you think. Insects love gardens with plenty of full-sun flowers and protection from harsh breezes. Utilizing plants native to your local area is often the first step you should take when establishing your own pollinator garden.

Starting from seed helps keep your garden budget-friendly; just be aware of seasonal timing and how long your plants need to grow. Likewise, colors can be extremely beneficial for pollinators. Purple and yellow flowers are pollinator faves, with pink and red colorations as close seconds. 

Try to plan your garden around the seasons so that you can keep things growing as long as possible. Native plants are helpful in this endeavor, as they readily adapt to your local climate. Some popular plants for pollinators include:

• Milkweed
• Bee balm
• Yarrow
• Sunflowers
• Daisies
• Wildflower mixes
• Mint
• Salvia
• Butterfly bushes

Include a Source of Water

Insects and hummingbirds don’t require too much water, but having it nearby is always a perk. A small birdbath or fountain can make a world of difference for pollinators. Try placing some water in the sun and some in the shade, as different species have their preferences (especially during the height of summer).

Clump Pollinator Plants Together

The less distance a pollinator has to travel, the more likely they’ll be to stick around. Grouping your pollinator plants together helps keep everything pollinated and offers these small creatures plenty of safety, food, and breeding grounds.

Advocate in Your Community

Is your local area involved in pollinator promotion? Reaching out to your community, local legislation, and more may surprise you when it comes to saving the bees. You may find yourself volunteering at your nearby park or organic garden center. Spreading the word about pollinator population decline may have a greater impact than you realize!

Pollinators Need Your Help

From the buzzing bumblebee to the humble hummingbird, our pollinator species need help now more than ever. By planting a pollinator garden on your property, you can provide safety, food, and beauty to these mighty creatures– and beautify your home, too!