Pollinator Garden

Pollinator diets vary by species and by their stage of life, but is mostly made up of pollen and nectar from blooming flowers. Some species of pollinators are very picky eaters. Others are considered "foragers", meaning they will eat just about anything. Flowering plants, especially plants that are considered "native" to your region and that bloom year after year (perennial), can provide different pollen and nectar sources that pollinators will eat.

Flowering plants that are helpful for pollinators can be planted as a stand-alone garden, or mixed into other meadow type habitat. These plants need a fair amount of sunshine to grow. They need water too, but normal rainfall should be enough. Consider the traits of your species and their life-cycle when choosing the types of flowers to plant. For example, hummingbirds need flowers that have long tube-like blossoms and provide liquid nectar for food. Certain types of butterflies need specific kinds of flowers at different stages of their life-cycle, so be sure to include what YOUR species needs. It's also important to provide flowers that bloom at different times so your species can have access to food and shelter throughout the season. Your habitat could also include a water source.