Urban landscapes can be designed to welcome pollinators. See the comprehensive guide to protecting and enhancing pollinators in Michigan landscapes for information landscapers and gardeners can use to attract pollinators and protect them during pest management tactics.
What is pollination?
Pollination is important for home vegetable gardens and backyard fruits. Most fruit trees require insect pollination. Several vegetables including cucurbits (cucumbers, gourds, melons, squashes and pumpkins), tomatoes and peppers also benefit from bee visits.
Which pollinators might visit plants in my garden?
All of Michigan’s 450 wild bee species require two things – resources (pollen and nectar from flowers) and a nest site. Though each species differs in the types of flowers visited, planting a variety of shrubs, trees, and plants that bloom throughout the season can make a difference in supporting bees or butterflies.
Resource on the different types of bees
Webinar on bumble bees of Michigan
Picking the right plants for pollinators
Creating the right habitat for pollinators
Bees nest in the ground or in cavities. These cavities can be rotten logs, trees, or artificial structures. Additional nesting sites can be provided for cavity nesting bees through installing bee hotels.
- Creating a smart habitat for bees
- Lawn alternatives to protect pollinators
- Smart gardening to support monarchs
A bee-friendly lawn is possible by including flowering seed mixes. Smart lawn care will protect pollinators.
News
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Michigan insects in the garden – Week 2: Green bees
Published on June 18, 2020
Bright green bees are flying under the radar in your garden.
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Monarch research takes flight in a social distancing world
Published on June 4, 2020
Responding to restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, these field researchers reorganized and are amplifying their monarch conservation study through the power of citizen science.
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Free Smart Gardening Series offered online
Published on June 4, 2020
Join us for online sessions on beekeeping, wildlife damage management, pollinator-friendly landscaping, vegetable garden insects, the Upper Peninsula hotline responder team and garden resources, and tips for using your fruits and vegetables.
