Creating Pollinator Habitat
Paradise for Pollinators
Bees, butterflies, birds, beetles, bats, wasps and even flies are important in the pollination process. But despite the importance of pollinators, they are often taken for granted. There is an alarming decline in worldwide pollinator populations. Excessive use of pesticides and an ever-expanding conversion of native vegetation landscapes to human use are the biggest culprits. The Board of Soil and Water Resources has $400 grants available as part of their Lawn to Legumes Program to help landowners start a pollinator garden at their house or cabin.
Pollinator gardens
Pollinator gardens are an oasis to pollinators of all kinds and are vital to re-establishing healthy populations of bees and butterflies. It is important to include plants native to your region in a pollinator garden. Natives are adapted to your local climate, soil and native pollinators.
Butterfly gardens
If you want colorful butterflies, grow plants for their caterpillars. They WILL eat them, so place them where unsightly leaf damage can be tolerated. Accept that some host plants are less than ornamental if not outright weeds. A butterfly guide will help you determine the plants you need to include in your butterfly garden!
Pollination is essential
Pollination occurs when an insect, bird, mammal, or even wind takes pollen from the male part of a flower to the female part of a flower, fertilizing the plant. The pollination process is necessary for crops that sustain all human and animal life. In fact, living pollinators are responsible for 75% of our food supply.