By Allison Huddleston, Undergraduate Researcher

Between 75%-95% of the world’s flowering plants rely on insects and other animals for pollination (Ollerton, 2011). Unfortunately, intensive agriculture methods that homogenize the landscape have led to declining numbers of unique native bee species among other pollinators. During the summer, horticulturalists and gardeners have a prime opportunity to enjoy the gorgeous blooms of native plants that also support the pollinators which are so essential for plant life. So, how do we plan our gardens to maximize support for pollinators?

• Choose native: Choosing native plants is a great way to support pollinators. Native plants are better suited to provide food and shelter for native pollinators that evolved alongside the local flora. Further, plants that are native to your region are typically going to be hardier to local conditions like drought, heat or disease. Planting some non-native species is okay too; just be sure that the more aggressively growing species do not outcompete your native plants.
• Plant diversity: Cultivating a diverse array of native flowers will help provide resources for many different pollinators. Some species have a specialized plant-pollinator relationship and may favor specific flower shapes or structures. When choosing your combination of pollinator plants, try to create a continuous source of food for pollinators by selecting plants that will bloom sequentially. Not only does this enhance the visual appeal of your garden, but it also ensures a consistent supply of nectar and pollen for local species.
• Landscape layout: Since more diversity is better, embrace creativity with your pollinator garden design. Incorporating a mix of flowering trees or shrubs, vining plants and wildflowers will create an exciting look and provide ample resources for pollinators. Avoid isolating individual plants; instead, cluster flowers of the same species to optimize pollinator foraging efficiency.
• Cautious pesticide use: Minimize pesticide application, particularly insecticides, to mitigate unintended harm to pollinator populations. A pollinator-friendly and often more cost-effective alternative is using biological pest control, which harnesses the natural predators of pest species to control pest populations. If insecticides must be used, avoid applying directly to a flower and schedule applications for the evening after most pollinators are done foraging for the day.

Recommended native species for the summer:

• American wisteria (Wisteria frutescens): Vining plant with clusters of violet blooms
• Butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa): Bushy herbaceous perennial with bright orange flowers
• Purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea): Herbaceous perennial with long-lasting, pinkish purple blooms
• Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta): Annual or short-lived perennial with cheerful yellow flowers