Attracting Pollinators to a Lawn

Pollinators are just like any other animal. They need water to survive.

Pollinators are an essential part of any garden ecosystem. When springtime comes around, vegetables, fruits, and flowers flourish thanks to the bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds completing cross-pollination. Ideally, homeowners want as many creatures as possible to ensure healthy plant growth. Fortunately, a few methods exist to invite them to any garden or lawn.

Here's how to attract pollinators to any lawn:

Let water flow

Pollinators are just like any other animal. They need water to survive. By leaving some out, they'll be sure to visit the garden or lawn more often. Homeowners should consider adding a fountain, birdbath, or pond to their outdoor landscaping. Doing so also boosts curb appeal, home value, and overall aesthetics.

Grow flowers in bunches

Growing colorful vegetation in bunches of at least three to five ensures the best pollination. Many pollinators don't see very well and rely on large colored areas to recognize flowers and other plants. Bunches also mimic nature's growing patterns so that pollinators will be attracted to the lawn by instinct.

Plant nectar-rich trees

Bees love to buzz around apple blossoms during the springtime. They can't resist the sweet-smelling nectar. Other trees that attract pollinators include different fruit trees, maple, and sourwood. Homeowners can also opt to plant shrubs if trees occupy too much space. Some examples include milkweed, California Poppy, and Coneflower.

Grow out herbs

Next to sweet-smelling trees and colorful flower bunches, pollinators also love various herbs. Most herbs don't take up much space. In particular, bees love the scents of basil, mint, and rosemary. Butterflies like to hide in tall stalks of lavender. However, homeowners should ensure these herbs bloom fully instead of using them for dishes or teas.

Build pollinator protection

Homeowners can also provide springtime pollinators with protection. This ensures they stay on the lawn longer while also raising their young. Some good options include hedges, unmowed grass patches, soil without mulch, or a compost pile. Avoid using a birdhouse, as hummingbirds prefer thorny branches, shrubs, and tree branches.

Take a break from mowing

Pollinators are attracted to lush vegetation. If the grass never gets long enough, they might not be attracted to the area. Take a three-week mowing break during the springtime to ensure that pollinators have the chance to investigate the lawn. After three weeks, homeowners can return to mowing the lawn more frequently once pollination is complete.

Promote pollinators and overall lawn health

Many homeowners only focus on landscaping, mowing, and cleaning up yards. While this is important, attracting pollinators can make it more beautiful and healthy. However, this takes time, expertise, effort, and specialized equipment. That's why homeowners should contact a lawn care company. Professionals can provide a personalized approach and the most effective lawn care practices.

Epic Lawns LLC provides top-quality lawn care and landscaping installation and maintenance to property owners in St. Charles, St. Louis, and Lincoln Counties. Call Epic Lawns at (636) 445-0824.