How To Help Pollinators
Honeybee populations are in drastic and accelerating decline just about everywhere that they are indigenous. Bumble bees too are declining. There is a host of other pollinators that do help: bats, moths, butterflies, hummingbirds, beetles and flies. Here are some ways that you can help.
Provide Nutrients : Flowers provide nectar (carbohydrates) and pollen (protein). Butterfly larvae ingest the plants in which they incubate. Fruit that has fallen to the ground or fermented on the tree provides food for pollinators.
When you are planning your garden patch, plant in bunches so that blooms are close together. Plan to have flowers throughout the blooming season by choosing different plants with specific blooming periods. Vary the plants so there are lots of different heights, colors and fragrances. Native perennials such as salvias and herbs all provide food for these important creatures. Try herbs like mint, oregano, lavender, garlic, parsley and chives. Annuals with their bright flowers are also perfect for the home garden.
Provide a Suitable Home : Planting in bunches as mentioned above allows for pollinators to zip in and out of food sources quickly to avoid predators. If possible, use a combination of trees, shrubs and perennials at different heights to help provide shelter. For ground nesters, leave some bare dirt spots so they too can take up residence in your home garden. Garden litter – leaves and dead wood for example also provide shelter.
Provide Clean Water : Even a small water reservoir provides drinking water and also bathing water for birds and other creatures. It is a joy to watch a bird take a bath, as it flaps its wings and splashes the water about.
Don't Use Harmful Chemicals: Simply avoid using pesticides and herbicides.
