Pollinators are a vital link in our ecosystem. Without them, there would be no more flowers or vegetables. Unfortunately, people underestimate their importance and the impact that pollinators have on our planet. Luckily, most gardeners know how important they are and openly invite butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds into their yards. But how do you attract them? We have come up with a list of tips to help you attract pollinators to your yard so these beneficial creatures can brighten up your garden.
Plant the Right Flowers
This is the most obvious and natural way to attract hummingbirds and butterflies. Some flowers are more attractive than others. Make sure you choose flowers that are rich in nectar and pollen such as blooming annuals, perennials, and certain shrubs. If you are looking to help the butterfly population, then plant some milkweed, fennel, and dill for butterfly larvae to feed on.
Other great flowers for attracting butterflies and hummingbirds include:
- Alyssum
- Butterfly bush
- Calendula
- Daylily
- Delphinium
- Dianthus
- Goldenrod
- Hollyhock
- Lavender
- Liatris
- Marigold
- Oregano
- Purple coneflower
- Queen Anne’s lace
- Sage
- Zinnia
Hummingbird feeder
There is nothing more special than watching a hummingbird hovering in front of your window. Hummingbird feeders and nectar can be bought at any hardware or garden shop. You can also make your own nectar at home. Just bring four cups of water to a boil, add one cup of sugar, remove from heat, and store in the refrigerator.
A Place to Live
Butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds need shelter too. While hummingbirds make their nests in trees and bushes, butterflies and bees prefer overgrown areas in fencerows. Remember, a rotting tree or pile of leaves can be home to an entire ecosystem of insects. If having an overgrown part of your yard is not an option you can still enjoy butterflies by putting up butterfly houses around your garden. Make sure the hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies have a place to stay if you want to attract pollinators to your garden.
Provide Water
Pollinating flowers all day is thirsty work. To keep butterflies and hummingbirds around you need to satisfy all their needs. One of those needs is water. You can help them out by installing a pond, rain garden, or even a birdbath where they can get a drink of water without leaving your yard.
Backyard Beekeeping
Keeping a couple of bee hives in your backyard won’t just benefit you but also the ecosystem. Bees are on the decline from industrial pesticides and human fear, but their importance to nature is immeasurable. Beekeeping is an interesting hobby and not only do you get your flowers pollinated quickly but you also can enjoy fresh homemade honey made from your own flowers.
Hire the Professionals
Not all insects in your yard are beautiful and harmless. Encountering them outside is one thing but encountering them in your kitchen is another. For comprehensive mosquito and pest control call the pros at Custom Lawn Care . We have several different programs to help defend your yard and make sure your special events go off without a hitch. Call (800) 570-3313 or contact us on our website.
