Pollinators are our Heroes

In the early spring, when the weather begins to warm up, you will begin to notice insects emerging from their leafy hideaways. Many of these insects, such as all kinds of bees, butterflies, moths and wasps are pollinators.

These pollinators are our heroes.

We depend upon these little insects. We need them to thrive because they are essential for fertilizing flowers that bloom later, such as many of our food plants. If these plants are not pollinated, then we will have no fruits and vegetables. 

Pollinators visit flowers to drink the plant’s nectar, while feeding, the pollen rubs onto their legs and body. As they visit other plants on their daily rounds, the pollen then rubs back on to the flower parts that need to be fertilized. In this process, the pollinators both feed themselves and fertilize the plants.

Unfortunately, pollen and nectar can be hard to come by at this time of the year. 

Here’s how you can help.

Dandelions are one of the first flowers to start popping their heads out in spring. This makes them one of the early sources of pollen for our pollinators. And yet, we have been taught to purge dandelions like vermin. Consider leaving those early rascals until some of the other flowers appear. 

You can also help the pollinators by planting early bloomers in your garden. There are many flowers that you can plant in your garden that will help to sustain pollinators through the summer. These will vary depending on your location and growing conditions, and there are many resources for finding the best fit for your home.

To get you started, here is a list of a couple of early bloomers:

• Yellow trout lily (Erythronium americanum)  – native to the northeast and midwest
• Virginia bluebells (Mertesia virginica) – native to eastern and central states
• Dutchman’s breeches (Dicentra cucullaria) – native to Pacific northwest, northeast, and mid west
• California golden violet (viola penunculata) – native to California
• For more information, check out the website of the National Wildlife Federation and search for pollinators.

Insects are an often overlooked natural wonder, who we would miss dearly if they disappeared. 

Paying attention to the pollinators and the plants they tend is the first step in raising our own awareness of how we’re all interconnected. Enjoy the buzz of the bees and the humm of pollinators dancing in the trees. Appreciate the gift of life they give to you and me. 

May your spring be filled with the buzz of pollinating,

~Lexie

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About the Author

Lexie Bakewell is a lifelong naturalist, artist, and retired homeschool teacher. She is the co-author of Coyote's Pocket Guide and Curious Coyote and is the in-house nature education and homeschooling expert at ZieBee Media.