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
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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Smart Gardening Conference to focus on smart plants
Published on February 13, 2020
Learn about the magical interactions between flowers and their pollinators at the 2020 Smart Gardening Conference in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
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Michigan Family Farms Conference brings education and resources to small-scale farmers
Published on January 21, 2020
Small- and medium-scale farmers are invited to attend the Michigan Family Farms Conference on Feb. 8, 2020 at the Kalamazoo Valley Community College.
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Queen Quest: The search for overwintering bumble bees
Published on November 21, 2019
How you can help researchers understand where bumble bees spend the cold months.
