Gardening for Pollinators

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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?

At least 460 species of wild bees are found in Michigan. Every pollinator 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.

A bee-friendly lawn is possible by including flowering seed mixes. Smart lawn care will protect pollinators.

News

MSU Pollinator Champions updated online course available

Published on October 14, 2024
Michigan State University updated a popular online course about pollinators in Michigan with new accessibility features, graphics and resources. The course is available at no charge to participants.
Add common milkweed to your garden to make colorful insects happy

Published on September 30, 2024
Milkweed plants can serve as host to many kinds of interesting insects.
Michigan Beekeepers Association 2024 Fall Conference

Published on September 30, 2024
The fall beekeeping conference will be held in Benzie County and include a honey show, three tracks of presentations on pollinator plants, alternative hive styles, honey bee colony health and more!