Do you want to make your yard more eco-friendly, visually interesting, and a healthier place? Then make your landscaping into a pollinator-friendly haven. How? Here are five key things to add for success.
1. Water Sources. Did you know that insects, just like people and other animals, need water? Providing water and food sources makes your backyard a welcoming and comfortable place to be. Work water sources into your landscape design, ranging from ponds and fountains to water gardens. Don't be too quick to drain all the natural water pools in the yard, either. While you don't want stagnating water, temporary pools are good for pollinators.
2. Native Plants. Support your local pollinators by including lots of native plants in your landscape. Native bushes, flowers, trees, and food plants are designed to serve as the right food and nesting sites for local fauna. This is often overshadowed as people seek out more stunning, exotic species. But you can often find gorgeous plants and flowers that are better suited to provide nutrients to your backyard wildlife.
3. Multiple Plants. It doesn't just matter which types of plants you include. It also matters how many plants you include. Many species of fruits and flowers require pollination of both male and female plants to thrive. And the variety of pollen sources supports more pollinators who feast on the same food source.
4. Shade and Sun. Make sure your landscape is comfortable for local pollinating insects by incorporating both shade and sunlight. Shade is important to protect small insects and keep water sources full. But the plants that many pollinators are drawn to — such as lavender — also need the right amount and timing of sunlight. Achieve good mixes of shade and sun not only through placement but also by choosing things like deciduous and evergreen trees.
5. Human Access. Once your landscape starts drawing in more insects and small wildlife, you want to enjoy it. But pollinators are often too small to enjoy from a distance. So spread out pollinator-friendly plants, water, and shade throughout the yard. Install walkways and sitting areas deeper in areas where pollinators like to go. Make your pollinator garden more interactive.
Where to Start
Ready to get started on a more pollinator-friendly landscape? Begin by meeting with an experienced landscaping service in your local area. With their expertise and training, they'll soon help you fill your yard with happy little critters — and a happy homeowner.
For more info about landscaping services, contact a local company.
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