A Pollinator Garden is a garden that has been designed with the specific intent to attract and support pollinators. When we think of pollinators, typically bees come to mind, but we have several other species that are also worth attracting. These include butterflies, hummingbirds, and even sphinx moths.
It is estimated that about 90% of our plants require some sort of animal-mediated pollination to produce fruit and reproduce. This includes the majority of our food crops such as fruits, vegetables, and nuts. Without a healthy abundance of pollinators, life-nourishing plants would become scarce for both humans and other herbivores alike. At an extreme, our ecosystem would destabilize and we would eventually experience a significant loss of species on our planet, including possibly our own. Pollinators are crucial for the survival of our species.
What’s scary is that bees, our most efficient and effective pollinator species, are now on the endangered species list. Bee colonies are continually decreasing in many areas all over the world. In Alberta, our winter records have shown a disheartening 40% decrease in colony populations in some areas. The decline of bees is thought to be contributed by two major factors. The first is climate change. The second is the loss of resources.
But what can we do about it? Plant a Pollinator Garden of course! When planning a pollinator garden, diversity is key! Plan for a wide variety of different flowering plants with different colours, shapes, and bloom times to attract and support a wide variety of pollinator species. Native plants are the best! You can also consider reducing or eliminating the use of chemical pesticides in your garden. And lastly, provide a clean water source. We highly recommend visiting the Alberta Native Bee Council, the Edmonton Native Plant Group, and Edmonton & Area Land Trust to learn more about supporting our local pollinators.
AWES : Recommended Native Pollinator Friendly Plants for the Aspen Parkland Region of Alberta
Edmonton Native Plant Society : Native Plants to Attract, and Help to Protect, Bees and Butterflies
Danaus plexippus
Papilio canadensis
Vanessa cardui
Limenitis arthemis
Colias philodice
Celastrina ladon
Archilochus colubris
Selasphorus rufus
Selasphorus calliope
Hemaris diffinis
Hyles gallii