Bringing Pollinators to your Garden

Albert Einstein once famously said, “If the bee disappears from the surface of the Earth, man would have no more than four years left to live.” This stark reminder underscores the incredible role that bees and other pollinators play in our ecosystem — especially when it comes to pollinating the plants that provide us with food. Pollinators are essential to the survival of many of the fruits and vegetables we rely on every day. But as their numbers decline, what can we do to help them thrive? The good news is, small changes in our gardens and daily habits can make a big difference.

How Do Bees Pollinate Flowers?

Bees are nature's expert pollinators. As they visit flowers to gather nectar, pollen sticks to their bodies and legs. When they move on to another flower, they transfer this pollen, allowing the plant to reproduce. Many crops, from tomatoes and cucumbers to pumpkins and beans, rely on bees for successful pollination. Without them, crop yields can drop dramatically, which can result in shortages of fresh produce. Butterflies, birds and other insects also act as pollinators for different plants.

How you can help the pollinators in your own backyard?

1. Provide a year-round food source

One of the biggest threats to bees is malnutrition, especially during seasons when flowers are scarce. By planting a variety of flowering plants to bloom throughout the year, you can ensure that bees always have access to food.

Planting for all seasons:

• Winter: Hellebore, Camellia, Pansies, Dragons Gold Kowhai.
• Spring: Flowering Cherries, Dogwoods, Spring bulbs, Kowhai.
• Summer: Lavender, Sedum, Salvia, Scabiosa, Roses, Bidens.
• Autumn: Echinacea, Rudbeckia, Penstemon, Cosmos.

A good mix of plants means different food sources for bees at various times of the year. Bees are particularly drawn to flowers that are blue, yellow, and purple, and they tend to avoid red flowers since they appear black to them.

2. Choose pollinator-friendly flowers

When selecting plants, opt for flowers with simple shapes. Pollinators prefer easy access to nectar, so flowers with flat heads, tubular shapes, or clusters of small flowers work best. Be cautious with hybrid flowers, as some are bred with extra petals, making it harder for bees to reach the nectar.

Bees, butterflies and insects prefer these flower shapes:

• Flat, open flowers (like daisies)
• Tubular flowers (like foxglove or honeysuckle)
• Clusters of tiny flowers (like lavender)

3. Let your garden go ‘wild’

Pollinators need all the help they can get, so let parts of your garden grow a little wilder. Leave herbs and vegetables to bloom, or allow clover to grow in your lawn. Even letting some "weeds" bloom can provide a rich source of nectar. Just be sure to remove seed heads to prevent the spread of unwanted weeds.

Also, remember to regularly deadhead spent flowers. Instead of using a hedge trimmer, which removes all flowers, take a moment to prune dead flowers by hand. This will encourage more blooms and keep the bees coming!

4. Provide a safe water source

Pollinators work hard, and all that flying can make them thirsty. Providing a safe place for them to drink can make a big difference. A birdbath might be too deep for bees, so add some large pebbles to create a shallow water source where bees can safely land and sip. Be sure to change the water regularly, especially during summer, to keep it fresh.

5. Use pesticides carefully

Pesticides are often blamed for pollinator decline, and while they do play a role, the issue is more complex. If you must use insecticides, choose ones that are safe for pollinators and follow the instructions carefully. Apply them when pollinators are not active — ideally early morning or early evening. Avoid spraying when plants are in bloom, as this can expose pollinator to harmful chemicals.

Not all "organic" options are pollinator-friendly, either. For example, pyrethrum, a common organic pesticide, can kill all insects, including bees. Always do your research before choosing a product, and consult experts if you're unsure.

6. Keep learning and stay informed

Understanding how pollinators live and what they need to survive can empower you to make better choices in your gardening and pest control practices. Support local beekeepers and organizations dedicated to protecting pollinators, and share what you learn with your friends and family. The more people who understand the importance of bees, the better.

Every small action counts

Saving the pollinators may feel like a daunting task, but every little change you make in your garden or daily routine can add up. Whether it’s planting pollinator-friendly flowers, reducing pesticide use, or simply providing a water source, your efforts will have an effect on the health of your local pollinators.