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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MSU Extension’s Lawn and Garden Hotline continues to assist callers
Published on October 15, 2019
Available now Monday thru Friday from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. EST, statewide responder teams answer calls.
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Register now for national conference on protecting pollinators in urban landscapes
Published on September 4, 2019
The 2019 Protecting Pollinators in Urban Landscapes Conference, held Oct. 7-9 at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, features nationally and internationally known speakers.
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Insects that look like bees
Published on August 30, 2019
It acts like a bee, but is it a bee? Many insects imitate bees and are also helpful for your yard and garden.
