More than 80% of our crops require pollination, yet the challenges and threats from habitat loss, climate change, pesticides, and disease make it difficult for pollinators to do their job. Thousands of bee, butterfly, moth, fly, and other pollinating species native to Canada tirelessly work to provide food, medicines, and healthy landscapes by supporting water filtration, carbon sequestration, and soil health.
Pollinator-friendly practices in gardens and agricultural spaces are the most impactful way to help pollinators thrive. Adding any or all of these elements will make positive changes.
Pollinator Habitat Elements:
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Continuous Blooms
Feed pollinators throughout the seasons by providing abundant pollen and nectar resources from spring into fall. Follow the โ3x3โ rule: include three individuals of three flowering species for each season. In established gardens, take stock of seasonal periods that need enhancement. -
Nesting Habitats
Undisturbed areas such as bare soil, old logs, piles of debrisโlike sticks, dead leaves, or compostโ and standing plant material provide nesting sites for ground-, twig- and cavity-nesting bees. These also create overwintering sites for pollinators. Leave in place, or set aside spots for habitat, remembering to be mindful of these homes during spring. In the fall, leave the leaves (or rake into beds) until mid- to late spring to ensure hibernating pollinators like bumble bee queens, fireflies, and lepidoptera have emerged. -
Host Plants & Grasses
Host plants are different for each species of moths and butterflies. Native trees and shrubs can be hosts, also providing coveted nectar in early spring. Grasses provide shelter, resting and nesting spaces. -
Careful with Chemicals!
Organic pesticides can be just as harmful to pollinatorsโalways read labels and follow directions before use. Avoid insecticides by attracting beneficial insects to your garden and using Integrated Pest and Pollinator Management (IPPM) strategies. If you must intervene, apply when insects are less likely to be out foraging, during cooler parts of the day, and ideally during the evening and night.
Learn more about pollinator-friendly practices, including how to install your own pollinator habitat, with Pollinator Partnership Canadaโs Ecoregional Planting Guides, and Native Plant Finder tool. Farmers and land managers, see our Agricultural Guides for crop-specific methods to protect pollinators and increase yields.
Pollinator Partnership Canada is a registered charity dedicated to the protection and promotion of pollinators and their ecosystems through conservation, education, and research. Donations help us help pollinators, people, and the planet.
Written by Samantha Medeiros,ย Pollinator Partnership Canadaย