The USDA’s 2022 Annual Pollinator Report notes that globally, there are 18 endangered and 9 critically endangered pollinator species. The sad reality is that almost half of the world’s pollinator species, including bees and butterflies, are at risk of extinction.
Every spring, as the snow melts and garden cleanup beckons, many eager homeowners eagerly jump at the chance to clear out last year’s plant debris and leaves. Unfortunately, doing so too early can disrupt the fragile habitats of pollinators in dire need of warmth and protection.
What can you do to help your local pollinators thrive? Waiting until the temperature consistently stays above 50°F for at least a week can make all the difference.
Why Pollinators Have a Better Chance with Delayed Yard Cleanup
Pollinators are at their most vulnerable in early spring. Bumblebees, mason bees, and a variety of butterfly species emerge at different times based on the warming soil and air temperatures. During the volatile changes in spring, many insects rely on hollow stems, dried leaves, and even piles of sticks for protection against sudden frosts and chilly nights. Thus, cleaning out garden debris like dead flowers too soon can wipe out entire populations before they’ve had a chance to wake up for spring.
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How to Support Pollinators in Your Garden
Helping pollinators while maintaining a beautiful garden is easier than you might think.
1. Start Other Spring Projects First
If you’re itching to clean up, hold off until the weather is warm enough for spring planting. Use this rule of thumb: if it’s warm enough to plant tomatoes outside (overnight temps above 50°F), pollinators are likely safe.
While this may seem like a very delayed time to start cleanup, there are plenty of other projects you can start now to get ready for planting season. Planting seedlings indoors, organizing tools, and making a plan for the summer can come first.
2. Go Bare in Some Areas
70% of native bees are ground-nesters. Leaving bare patches of soil allows them to burrow and create safe homes for their young, which will help keep the bees in your garden thriving. Choose a corner of your garden to leave untouched so that these bees of access to the soil they need.
3. Plant Pollinator-Friendly Plants
When designing your garden, include native flowering plants that bloom from early spring to late fall. This provides bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with the nectar they need throughout the seasons. Asters, milkweed, and bee balm are just a few crowd favorites (for gardeners, bees, and butterflies alike).
Social media memes will insist you keep dandelions and clover in your lawn for bees. However, tree pollen, wildflowers, and native shrubs are all often in full bloom long before these lawn weeds are in bloom. Ultimately, there’s plenty for the bees to feast on if you have a thriving garden.
4. Bee-Friendly Pest Control
Avoid using harsh pesticides or herbicides in your garden, as these chemicals can be harmful to pollinators. Instead, try natural pest control methods such as companion planting or using beneficial insects like ladybugs to control aphids.
Keeping Balance
Overall, it’s important to remember that our actions as gardeners have a significant impact on the delicate balance of our ecosystem. By delaying our spring cleanup and taking small steps to support pollinators, we can ensure their survival and continue to enjoy the beauty and bounty of our gardens for years to come.
Read more:
Why Your Garden Needs Bees and Butterflies—And How to Help Them Thrive
March into Gardening: Seeds to Sow Now for a Vibrant Spring
