Gardening concepts are always evolving, and greenhouse growers need to make sure consumers are aware of the importance of pollinators and pollinator-friendly plants.
The monarch habitat will span more than 2 acres near Kelley, IA, and will include milkweed to attract and provide fuel for butterflies and other beneficial insects and pollinators.
The popularity of native plants is rising as gardeners become conscious of the need to plant more pollinator gardens. The challenge is to select the right plants to put in them.
In spring 2014, Bell Nursery stopped using neonicotinoids to find out how it would impact production. Then the operation began keeping bees to learn more.
Madeline Maynor, Growing Operations Manager for Landenberg, PA-based North Creek Nurseries, shares greenhouse growing tips for Asclepias tuberosa, the 2017 Perennial Plant of the Year.
The five-year, $4 million commitment from Xerces Society, General Mills, and USDA will offer technical assistance to growers to plant and protect pollinator habitats.
Just like bees need plants that provide pollen, butterflies rely on plants for a place to lay their eggs and to provide a food source for emerging caterpillars. Check out this list of plants for caterpillars and butterflies from Michigan State University Extension.
Pollinator friendly perennials are the foundation of a well-rounded pollinator garden. Check out this list of 45 perennials that are sure to attract bees.
Recently, mainstream media reported that certain bee species have been placed on the endangered species list, but the situation isn’t as dire as one might think.
If you are a grower looking for information on producing plants that are safe for pollinators, or which plant types can be marketed as good food sources for bees, the new publication “Protecting and Enhancing Pollinators in Urban Landscapes” provides a good resource.
