Pollinator Gardens Are More than Just Milkweed

By Joanna Panasiewicz – Erie County Department of Environment and Planning

Bees, birds, butterflies, bats, beetles, moths, ants, flies, wasps, and small mammals are all pollinators. We need them to ensure beautiful blooms and fresh food in our gardens and in our stores, but the use of insecticides and other harmful chemicals, as well as habitat destruction, has reduced their numbers. There is good news though. You can help save the pollinators by planting the right species in your suburban garden!

We’ve heard of planting milkweed to save the monarch butterflies, but did you know that many other native insects are losing their native food sources as well? Renowned author and native plant advocate, Doug Tallamy, recently spoke in Western New York about the importance of planting native species to support a diversity of native insects and pollinators in our gardens. He mentions that we have taken 95% of the U.S. from nature be converting it to cities and farms and can thus expect to lose 95% of the species that once lived here unless we learn how to share our spaces with biodiversity.

Oak trees can support over 500 different species of caterpillars! An ornamental tree, such as a lilac, doesn’t support any caterpillars locally. Birds eat caterpillars and other insects to survive. By planting native species, you are encouraging a healthy ecosystem in your neighborhood and increasing the chances of seeing beautiful creatures in your backyard. Studies have shown that modest increases in native plant cover in suburban areas can have dramatic increases in the number of local pollinators and breeding birds that rely on them for food.

Residents can convert portions of their lawn to gardens to help save pollinators. Alternatively, as plants die in your garden, consider replacing them with native species. Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper has a native plant guide available with local trees, shrubs, vines, ferns, grasses, groundcovers, and perennials to consider in your garden. Many local nurseries are increasing their selection of native plants, but some species are already relatively common to find such as Purple Cone Flower (Echinacea purpurea) and Blackeyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta). For variety, consider planting other pollinator-friendly flowers in your garden as well.
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The Kenmore Village Improvement Society wants to help our bee population by providing a plant called Bee's Friend (Phacelia tanacetifolia) free of charge.  It is a long-blooming plant with lacey fern-like leaves and buds that unfurl with a succession of delicate lavender blooms. It also attracts other pollinators. The free seeds will be available by contacting the Society at [email protected] or (716) 877-0477.  Please be mindful of those with allergic reactions to bees when selecting the place to plant the seeds. 
Even gardens on small plots of land can be welcoming to pollinators and can contribute to a healthy ecosystem. We can all do our part to protect the pollinators and enjoy beautiful gardens.