Looking for a Summer of Service project that will beautify your outdoor space and contribute to the health of our ecosystems? Consider creating pollinator garden.

Bees, butterflies, moths, hummingbirds, bats and insects like beetles are all pollinators. Pollinators are vital for ecosystems because they help plants reproduce and support the growth of fruits, vegetables, and flowers. However, habitat loss and environmental changes endanger pollinator populations. By planting a pollinator garden, you can create a welcoming habitat for bees, butterflies, and birds, while also enhancing the beauty of your outdoor areas. Even if you don’t have a yard, you can follow the tips below and create a pollinator-friendly habitat using planters and containers.Did you know? It is estimated that pollinators contribute billions of dollars annually to global crop production, supporting farmers’ livelihoods and food security?

Here’s how to get started.

Choose the Right Location

Pick a spot with ample sunlight, as most pollinator-friendly plants thrive in sunny conditions. Ideally, the area should be sheltered from strong winds and away from pesticide-treated spaces.

Select Native Plants

Native plants are best suited for local pollinators since they have evolved together. Look for flowers that bloom throughout different seasons to provide a continuous food source. Include a mix of wildflowers, shrubs, and herbs like:

• Milkweed (essential for monarch butterflies)
• Coneflowers and black-eyed Susans (beloved by bees)
• Lavender and bee balm (attracts hummingbirds and butterflies)

Popular pollinator-friendly flowers like phlox, verbena, allium, zinnias, asters, and salvia are also great for cut arrangements. Since many native plants are perennials, they return annually and make a lasting addition to your garden.

Provide Water Sources

Water is essential for hydration and cooling. Shallow dishes filled with pebbles and water create safe resting spots for bees and butterflies.

Avoid Pesticides

Pesticides can harm pollinators and disrupt their natural behaviors. Opt for natural pest control methods, such as companion planting or introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs.

Create Habitat and Shelter

You can provide shelter by incorporating plants of varying heights and adding features like logs, rock piles, and bee houses. Leaving patches of bare soil helps ground-nesting bees thrive.

Support Local Conservation Efforts

Join community garden initiatives, participate in native plant sales, or connect with conservation groups to further pollinator protection efforts.

Need help? Visit a local nursery or garden center. They can help you select the perfect plants for your climate. If you decide to use planters or containers, make sure they have drainage holes before you get started.

Planting a pollinator garden not only benefits the environment but also creates a vibrant and lively outdoor space. With a little planning, you can help sustain pollinator populations for generations to come!