The critical importance of pesticide-free and neonic-free plants for pollinators and native ecosystems:

Pollinators need 'clean' food....

Pollinators like bees, butterflies, birds, and other insects are essential for the health of our ecosystems and play a vital role in the reproduction of nearly 85% of the world's flowering plants and 35% of crop production. However, these crucial creatures face increasing threats, including habitat loss and the widespread use of pesticides, particularly neonicotinoids. Choosing pesticide-free and neonic-free native plants for your garden or landscape is a powerful way to support these vital insects and contribute to the well-being of the environment.

The dangers of pesticides, especially neonicotinoids:

• Neonicotinoids (neonics) are a class of systemic insecticides widely used in agriculture and home gardens. These chemicals are absorbed by the plant and permeate its tissues, including nectar, pollen, and guttation fluid, making the entire plant toxic to insects.

• Indiscriminate killers: Neonics kill both target pests and beneficial insects like bees and butterflies indiscriminately.

• Far-reaching effects: Beyond direct mortality, neonic exposure can lead to a range of harmful effects in pollinators, including impaired foraging ability, reduced reproduction, weakened immune systems, navigation problems, and increased susceptibility to diseases.

• Persistence in the environment: Neonics can persist in the soil for months or even years and spread through waterways, contaminating ecosystems far beyond their initial application sites.

• Other pesticides are harmful: It's important to remember that while neonics are particularly damaging, other insecticides, fungicides, and even herbicides can also harm pollinators and beneficial insects.
  

Why choose native plants?

• Evolutionary connection: Native plants have co-evolved with local pollinators over millennia, resulting in a finely tuned relationship. Native flowers offer nectar and pollen that are specifically adapted to the needs of local pollinators, ensuring efficient pollination and supporting the entire pollinator lifecycle.

• Abundant resources: Native plants are generally more resilient and well-suited to local soil and climate conditions, requiring less water, fertilizer, and maintenance compared to non-native species. This natural hardiness contributes to a healthier environment by reducing chemical runoff and promoting sustainable practices.

• Habitat and shelter: Beyond food, native plants provide vital habitat and nesting sites for a variety of pollinators and other wildlife.

• Ecosystem enhancement: Native plants support biodiversity, improve soil health, filter pollutants, and contribute to a balanced and thriving ecosystem.
  

Creating a pollinator-friendly garden without pesticides

• Embrace native species: Select plants that are indigenous to your area, providing the most suitable food and habitat for local pollinators.

• Seek out pesticide-free sources: When purchasing plants, inquire about their growing practices and prioritize nurseries that avoid using neonics and other harmful pesticides.

• Think year-round blooms: Choose a variety of plants that bloom throughout the seasons, ensuring a continuous food source for pollinators.

• Provide diverse habitats: Offer various types of cover and nesting sites, such as logs, brush piles, or bee boxes.

• Go organic: If using pest control, opt for organic options as a last resort, as even some organic pesticides can harm pollinators. Implement integrated pest management strategies that focus on preventative measures and natural pest control.

• Offer shallow water: Provide a water source with shallow areas or pebbles for pollinators to safely drink.

• Let it grow wild: Avoid excessive tidiness in your garden, allowing some weeds and dead plants to remain, as they can be valuable food and habitat sources for pollinators.

By making conscious choices about the plants you grow and the products you use in your garden, you can make a significant difference in protecting pollinators and promoting a healthier, more vibrant environment for all.