Birds and insects pollinate more than 85 percent of the world’s flowering plants and are essential to our environmental ecosystems and food supply.

Pollinators (birds, mammals, bees, flies, beetles, butterflies and moths)

Recent concerns about losses of the bee population have led gardeners to wonder how to make positive contributions towards their conservation.  

Create a sanctuary for bees, butterflies and other pollinators with a few of our expert tips: 

• Plant a diverse selection of pollinator-friendly plants and flowers. They’ll provide pollen and nectar sources throughout the growing season.
• Rethink your mowed lawn. Natural spaces support a greater diversity of bees, butterflies and other pollinators.
• Provide uncultivated spaces with open mud and fresh water, which native mason bees need to build their nests.
• Use beneficial insects, which bees need, to deal with pests.
• Use selective insecticides to deal with insect pest problems.
• Avoid applying any pesticides to plants in flower and during the day when bees, butterflies and other pollinators are active.
• Always use any pesticide or insecticide according to manufacturer’s instructions.
• Call a local beekeeper to move a large beehive if it is built in a troublesome place on your property rather than using chemicals to kill the bees.

Here are a few pollinator-friendly plants from Proven Winners that will be available this season:

Perennials: Opening Act Blush Phlox, Magin Show White Wands Veronica, Pardon My Cerise Monarda, and Color Spires Violet Riot Salvia. 

Annuals: Luscious Berry Blend Lantana, Mojave Tangerine Moss Rose Portulaca, Supertunia Flamingo Petunia, and Stratosphere White Butterfly Flower Gaura.