Did you know? It’s Pollinator Week!
In recent years, there have been an alarming number of reports on the struggling statuses of bees and butterflies. But with a little guidance, we can try to do our part in helping rebuild the pollinator populations!
Tips for Planting a Pollinator Friendly Garden
- Pick a sunny spot. Did you know insects are cold-blooded? Therefore, they need to warm up their bodies to fly well.
- Cluster nectar plants in large groups so they can be seen from greater distances.
- Plant a variety of native plants that bloom at different times so the adults have a steady supply of nectar and pollen.
- Include food sources, also called host plants, in your garden so butterflies have a place to lay their eggs and the caterpillars have leaves to eat. (Butterfly Weed will draw Monarchs!)
- Some Pollinators like bright colors such as red, yellow, orange, pink, and purple.
- Avoid using heavy chemicals in your garden and on your lawn. These products can kill pollinators and other beneficial insects in both their larval and adult phases.
A short list of Perennials for Pollinators
| Plant Name | Nectar Source | Host Plant | Bloom Time | Exposure |
| Agastache- Hyssop | Yes | No | July-September | Full Sun/Part Shade |
| Beardtongue | Yes | No | May-July | Full Sun/Part Shade |
| Bee Balm | Yes | No | May-July | Full Sun/Part Shade |
| Black Eyed Susan | Yes | No | July-September | Full Sun/Part Shade |
| Cardinal Flower | Yes | No | July-September | Full Sun/Part Shade |
| Chelone- Turtlehead | Yes | Yes | August-September | Full Sun/Part Shade |
| Coneflower | Yes | Yes | July-October | Full Sun/Part Shade |
| Garden Phlox | Yes | No | July-September | Full Sun/Part Shade |
| Goldenrod | Yes | No | August-October | Full Sun |
| Joe Pye Weed | Yes | No | August-September | Full Sun/Part Shade |
| Milkweed | Yes | Yes | June-August | Full Sun/Part Shade |
| Threadlead Coreopsis | Yes | No | June-July | Full Sun |
So if you’d like to help rebuild the pollinator populations, keep these tips and perennials in mind when planting. With a little planning and patience, soon bees will be buzzing and butterflies fluttering around your garden.