May 3rd

By Mutt Mulligan

How to plant for pollinators

As you’re mapping out your planting plans this spring, TurfMutt encourages you to keep the needs of pollinators – bees, birds, butterflies, bats and other insects – in mind. Remember, nature starts in your backyard. It’s important for all of us to protect our corner of the ecosystem for the health of the planet, people and pets.

Here are some tips for planting for pollinators this spring.

Select flowers that nourish.
Check with your local nursery or landscape professional to determine which flowers will offer the best pollen and nectar supplies while also thriving in your local environment. You don’t need to have a big yard to make a big difference for our pollinator friends. Even container gardens can help. It’s simply about planting mindfully. Sunflowers, for instance, are a beacon for pollinators. And red flowers attract hummingbirds.

Diversify.
Take advantage of the full blooming season. Select different plant varieties that will bloom throughout the summer to offer a sustainable food source.

Create habitat areas.
Pollinators need shelter from the elements and predators. A pile of grass clippings, a decomposing log, or a row of bushes can do the trick. Bat boxes and bee houses are other options that can be fun for the whole family to create and monitor.

Offer water sources.
Butterflies love mud, which offers much-needed nutrients for them. And all pollinators need ample hydration to survive. Consider adding a birdbath to your backyard. It’s also fun to observe which winged wonders come to visit!

Want to learn more about the benefits of your living landscapes? Go to SaveLivingLandscapes.com.