Planting for Pollinators
Do you enjoy beautiful flowers, juicy fruits and fresh vegetables? Over 80 percent of the world’s flowering plants like cucumbers, blueberries and honeysuckle are dependent on animal pollinators. Unfortunately, the populations of some of these animals – bats, birds, bees and other insects – are declining because of many factors. Increased use of pesticides and the replacement of natural habitats by roadways, homes and non-native plant species are some ways that these creatures are being threatened. One way to help pollinators at home is to create your own pollinator habitat. Pollinators need food sources throughout the year. Grow clusters of plants that will flower at different stages of the growing season to supply a steady food source. Vary the type of plant to encourage different kinds of pollinators to visit. Enjoy your flowers, fruits and vegetables, and help provide habitat for pollinators at the same time.
Viewer Tip: Native is best. Pollinators thrive on plants that would naturally occur in the region. Search out plant species native to your area to encourage pollinators to make your garden their new home.
This information is provided by the Georgia Wildlife Federation. Learn more ate www.gwf.org.
