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Saving Bees and Other Pollinators

It's no secret there has been a significant decline in bee populations world wide.  As an essential part of our food web, we must do all we can to protect these critical pollinators.  Following are some things you can do:

• Avoid Pesticides.  Systemic pesticides containing toxic chemicals such as neonicotinoids, can poison wildlife for years after use.  When purchasing plants, ask the nursery if they use neonicotinoids.  If they do, run, don't walk, to a nursery that cherishes the environment.
• Plant Native Plants.  Provide food through nectar and pollen producing plants.  It's best if the plants are a regionally specific species.
• Provide Nesting Sites.  Most native bees are solitary creatures.  They don't build hives and rarely sting.  Invite them into your gardens by leaving some bare areas of soil, so they can build ground nests.
• Reduce Your Lawn.  Grass isn't native, and it does little to support wildlife.  It's often the victim of harmful chemicals.  Instead, create gardens with trees, shrubs, native grasses and perennials. 

Follow any or all of these tips, and you will be amazed at who might show up.  (Source: Phaedra Singelis, ABC News)