The week of June 20 – 26 is Pollinator Week, so here at Timberline we wanted to share what pollinators are, why pollinators are beneficial for your garden, and the best plants to plant in your garden to attract pollinators in Colorado. Planting for pollinators is great for your garden, and it’s even better for the environment!
What are pollinators?
A pollinator is any animal that causes a plant to make fruit or seeds. The animal spreads pollen to different parts of the flower, which fertilizes the plant. Once the plant is fertilized, it is able to make more fruits and seeds, making them able to reproduce. Honey bees are the most common pollinator; however, there are many different kinds of pollinators. Bees, butterflies, beetles, wasps, flies, some birds, and some bats are all pollinators.
Why are pollinators important?
Can you imagine a world without fruit? Without coffee? Without chocolate? Thanks to pollinators, that doesn’t have to be a reality. About 1,300 types of plants are grown for food, beverages, condiments, spices, fabric, and medicines, and 75 percent of those plants cannot flourish without pollinators. They play a huge role in what we consume.
Pollinators also help create and maintain ecosystems and habitats other animals use for food and shelter. They also help reproduce 90 percent of flowering plants. However, there has been a recent fast decline in pollinator populations. This alarming decline is credited to the excessive use of pesticides. However, planting to attract pollinators and controlling your use of pesticides can help fix this problem and the environment.
What plants attract pollinators?
There are many different trees, shrubs, flowers, and crops that require and attract pollinators. Many of these plants have flower seasons in the Colorado summer months. Here are some options:
Trees and Shrubs:
Lilacs
Spirea
Hawthorns
Mexican Cliffroses
Apache Plumes
Apple Trees
Cherry Trees
Crabapple Trees
Annual and Perennial Flowers:
Bee Balm
Clover
Irises
Lavender
Roses
Sunflowers
Violets
Hyssop
Russian Sage
Catmint
Sedum
Yarrow
Crops:
Mint
Basil
Sage
Thyme
Cherries
Strawberries
Apples
Blueberries
Tomatoes
Squash/Pumpkins/Gourds
Plant for pollinators this Pollinator Week. You’ll not only grow a more fruitful garden, but you will create a more fruitful environment as well. The National Wildlife foundation is hosting a “Million Pollinator Garden Challenge” to reverse the decline of pollinators. You can participate in the challenge by turning your garden into a Certified Wildlife Habitat, where you receive a personalized certificate and many other cool prizes.
Need landscaping assistance before you plant? Contact us.
