Pollinator gardens are a great way to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects to your yard. Here are some steps to get started:
- Choose a location: Choose a sunny location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. You can create a pollinator garden in an existing garden bed, or create a new one by removing the grass and weeds.
- Choose the right plants: Choose plants that provide nectar and pollen for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Look for plants that bloom at different times of the year, so there is always something in bloom. Some good choices include milkweed, coneflower, black-eyed Susan, bee balm, and lavender.
- Provide water: Pollinators need water, so provide a shallow dish of water with rocks or a bird bath for them to drink from.
- Avoid pesticides: Avoid using pesticides, as they can harm pollinators. Instead, use natural pest control methods like companion planting, handpicking pests, or using insecticidal soap.
- Create habitat: Provide habitat for pollinators by adding nesting sites, such as bee houses or butterfly houses, and leaving a small area of bare ground for ground-nesting bees.
- Maintain your garden: Maintain your garden by watering as needed, deadheading spent blooms, and removing any weeds. In the fall, leave some dead plant material to provide habitat for overwintering pollinators.
By following these steps, you can create a beautiful and beneficial pollinator garden in your yard. Not only will you be helping pollinators, but you’ll also be creating a peaceful and relaxing space for yourself.