Woodie’s Picks: Summer Blooms To Support Pollinators
As we approach the summer months, you will likely see a greater influx of pollinators in your garden. Pollinators are essential to a healthy ecosystem and play a role in the production of many of the fruits and veggies that make up our everyday diets.
But despite their importance, many pollinators are declining worldwide. In this blog, we will highlight the key factors aiding in the decline of pollinators. We will then share how you can help to turn things around and support these tiny creatures that make a significant impact on our lives! Lastly, we will highlight four of our favorite summer bloomers that do wonders in supporting local bees, butterflies, birds, moths, bats, and more!
Why Are Pollinator Populations in Decline?
The decline of pollinator populations worldwide is attributed to various factors. Below are the main culprits.
Habitat Loss and Degradation
Pollinator habitats are declining largely due to mass urbanization and the transition from natural land to agricultural use. Natural habitats such as prairies and meadows are being converted into residential areas, infrastructure, and farmland. The remaining plots of suitable habitat are often isolated, making the pollinators' journey to find food and shelter much more difficult.
Pesticide Use
Another factor contributing to the decline of pollinators like bees and butterflies is the rising use of pesticides in commercial and residential gardens. While pesticides are often intended to keep pests like whiteflies and aphids at bay, they also directly kill pollinators or negatively affect their ability to forage, reproduce, and navigate.
Climate Change
Climate change is impacting ecosystems around the world in a variety of ways. The rising temperatures are particularly impacting pollinators by disrupting their food sources, habitats, and the overall timing of their plant interactions. For one, climate change is causing flowers to bloom earlier than usual. This premature bloom causes a mismatch between when plants need pollination and when the pollinators are available. Higher temperatures and drought can also reduce the amount and quality of nectar and pollen produced by plants, which in turn directly affects a pollinator’s level of nutrition.
How You Can Help Support The Pollinators
You may be thinking, ‘I’m just one person, I can’t do anything to help the decline of pollinators,’ but we’re here to tell you that one person can make all the difference! Below are a few ways you can help buffer the loss of pollinator populations worldwide and support them in their journey!
- Plant Native
- Reduce Pesticide Use
- Provide Shelter
- Provide a Water Source
- Spread Awareness
Summer-Blooming Pollinator Favorites
Butterfly Weed (Asclepias)
Butterfly Weed is an excellent choice for supporting local pollinators because it provides nectar and pollen to a variety of beneficial insects, such as butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds. Milkweed is a specific type of Asclepias that is a vital host plant for Monarch butterfly caterpillars. They lay their eggs on milkweed plants, and the larvae feed on the leaves. Butterfly Weed is a relatively low-maintenance plant that readily tolerates drought conditions.
Meadowsweet (Spirea)
Another pollinator magnet for the early summer months is Meadowsweet. Botanically referenced as ‘Spirea,’ these colorful shrubs are well-loved by pollinators. Their dense clusters of small flowers produce abundant nectar and pollen, making them an extremely attractive option for pollinators. The flat-topped flower clusters also offer convenient landing spots for butterflies and other insects to access the nectar. Spirea is reasonably easy to grow and can tolerate various growing conditions, making it suitable for many different landscape designs.
Coneflowers (Echinacea)
Coneflowers, botanically known as ‘Echinacea’, are a great, native, longtime favorite of pollinators in the garden. The native nature of these summer perennials offers specific nutrients, pollen, and nectar that local pollinators have evolved to rely on. The vibrant, long-lasting blooms provide a rich supply of nectar and pollen all summer long! The large cone centers and open daisy-like petals are well-loved by bees and butterflies for easy accessibility. These hardy perennials are relatively low-maintenance and readily adaptable to various soil types.
Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia)
Last on our list of summer plants to grow for the pollinators is Crape Myrtle, also referenced as Lagerstroemia. While they don’t produce nectar, the mass of fluffy blooms in August is a valuable source of pollen for bees. The trees’ bright flowers are very visually attractive to our important buzzing friends. Additionally, the lush leafy green foliage and smooth bark make these trees a great shelter and resting point on hot summer days. Beyond their support to pollinators, Crape Myrtle Trees are excellent summer specimens to grow because they thrive in full sun, are drought tolerant once established, and make a gorgeous centerpiece statement in a landscape.
Shop Pollinator Plants Online
This summer, while your initial goal in landscaping may be to beautify your yard, we ask that you also keep the pollinators in mind! By planting pollinator-friendly plants, you are directly aiding in the path to a happier and healthier ecosystem! Shop a wide range of pollinator-friendly plants and enjoy convenient shipment directly to your doorstep! Your pollinator oasis has never been closer!