Ways Landscapers Can Go About Enticing Pollinating Insects
We all know how important our pollinating insects are, and most of us know how their numbers have been dwindling in recent years. Bees, butterflies, pollinating beetles, and more—they need our help to continue their important work! Keep reading for ways to help by making conscious choices this spring.
How to Attract Pollinating Insects to Your Garden or Yard
You might be surprised to learn just how many simple ways there are to attract and protect pollinating insects! From planting particular plants to mowing your grass a little less often, small changes can significantly impact local biodiversity.
#1: Plant with Pollinators in Mind
One of the most obvious ways to help is to include plants that pollinators love in your garden! Essentially, you’ll want any flowering plant rich in nectar, pollen, or honeydew. Because pollinators prefer native plants, do some research to find out what you should plant in your area.
If you’re an Alabama local, plants like milkweed, violets, Alabama azaleas, and mountain mint will all attract local pollinators.
#2: Garden Greener
Limiting the use of pesticides in your garden will help protect any pollinators that come to hang out. There are plenty of natural, environmentally conscious ways to deter those pests you don’t want! Hedges, thickets, or small ponds will not only look great in your garden, but they also provide a home for butterflies, bees, etc.
Even mowing a little less often during the spring and summer will help! Now you have an excuse to skip a few yard maintenance days.
#3: Build Insect Shelters
While honeybees might be the most famous bee species, there are plenty of wild bees that don’t produce honey but make great pollinators. And they don’t need hives to thrive! A simple log structure that faces the sun and sits out of the direct wind will do the trick. Dry stone walls (without mortar or binders) also make great homes for pollinating insects.
#4: Keep Predators Away
Most pests that harm pollinators are pests you don’t want around anyway—like hornets! Installing hornet traps in or near your garden will help minimize the number of predators buzzing around and keep you and your family from getting stung.
Birds are also something you’ll want to have around! Not only are they beautiful to look at, but they’ll do an excellent job of scaring away most pollinator predators. Install bird feeders and birdhouses in your garden for some natural pest prevention.
Need Help with Unwanted Pests?
At Vulcan Termite & Pest Control, we’re all about education. We think it’s important to know what insects are helpful and which ones are harmful! If you’re dealing with the harmful (or just plain annoying) kind, we can help. Call us today to get started!