Garden Gate

THE FORGOTTEN POLLINATORS

When you think of pollinators, no doubt the European honeybee and the monarch butterfly come to mind. These species are under stress, suffering massive population losses and, as such, are making headlines; indeed, we should care about their plight. But they’re not the only pollinators that matter. They all do. Even ants, flies, lady beetles, soldier beetles and wasps do important work in our gardens. Let me show you how to recognize—and welcome—these lesser known pollinators.

Through sustainable gardening, you can help protect all the wildlife in your garden’s ecosystem. Eliminating or reducing pesticide applications, making sure these beneficial insects have plenty to eat at the right time and providing the best habitat will help protect pollinators. Here is what each of these fascinating insects needs.

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