Are you looking to pack some “pollinator power” into your garden? If you don’t already have them, try adding plants that attract pollinators, like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. These hardworking creatures play a vital role in fertilizing plants, ensuring they thrive and produce seeds, fruits, and flowers.

Why Pollinators Matter

Pollinators are responsible for fertilizing nearly 75% of the crops we rely on for food, fibers, and medicine. Without them, our gardens—and our dinner plates—would look very different.

Tips for Creating a Pollinator-Friendly Garden

1. Choose Native Plants

Native plants have evolved alongside local pollinators, making them the best choice for attracting and sustaining these beneficial creatures. In Pittsburgh, great options include:

• Coneflowers, asters, lavender, salvia, sunflowers, and zinnias
• Herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme
• Milkweed for monarch butterflies

2. Plan for Continuous Blooms

Pollinators need food throughout the growing season. Select plants that bloom at different times to ensure a steady supply of nectar and pollen from early spring to late fall.

3. Group Plants Together

Planting clusters of the same species makes it easier for pollinators to collect and spread pollen efficiently. Different pollinators prefer different plants, so variety is key.

4. Provide Shelter and Water

Pollinators need safe spaces to rest and nest. Consider adding:

• Shrubs and trees for cover
• Mini-meadows or flower beds that aren’t mowed frequently
• A shallow water source like a birdbath or small pond

5. Avoid Pesticides

Many pesticides harm pollinators. Opt for natural pest control methods, such as companion planting, to keep your garden thriving without harming beneficial insects.

6. Adapt for Small Spaces

Even if you have a container garden on a balcony, you can still support pollinators!

• Install a windbreak like a trellis or screen to protect plants from strong gusts.
• Choose shade-tolerant pollinator plants like columbine or honeysuckle if your space gets limited sunlight.

7. Support Local Conservation Efforts

Pittsburgh has fantastic resources for pollinator-friendly gardening, including the Phipps Conservatory Pollinator Guide and the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden.

A Win-Win for Everyone

Pollinator gardens don’t just benefit bees and butterflies—they help us too! It’s estimated that one out of every three bites of food we eat exists because of pollinators. By creating a pollinator-friendly space, you’re supporting biodiversity, improving your garden’s health, and contributing to a more sustainable future.

Ready to get started? Plant a few pollinator-friendly flowers today and watch your garden—and your local ecosystem—flourish!