June is National Pollinator Month: Small Changes, Big Buzz! 🐝

Hello, green-thumbed friends and nature enthusiasts!

June is National Pollinator Month—a time to honor the tiny heroes that keep our gardens blooming and our food supply thriving. Bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators play a crucial role in our ecosystem, and the good news is, we can all contribute to their well-being with just a few thoughtful choices.

Why Pollinators Matter

Pollinators are responsible for one out of every three bites of food we eat. They help plants reproduce, which in turn supports wildlife, improves air and water quality, and enhances the beauty of our landscapes. Unfortunately, pollinator populations are declining due to habitat loss, pesticides, and climate change.

Small Steps, Big Impact

The great news? Even small actions can make a significant difference. Here are some simple ways you can support pollinators:

• Plant Native: Native plants are adapted to our local environment and provide the best food and shelter for native pollinators. They’re also low-maintenance and drought-resistant.

• Avoid Pesticides: Many chemicals harm pollinators. Opt for natural pest control methods whenever possible.

• Provide Water: A shallow water source with stones for perching can be a lifesaver for thirsty pollinators.

• Create Shelter: Leave some areas of your garden a bit wild. Dead wood, bare ground, and dense shrubs offer nesting sites.
  

Spotlight on American Beauties Native Plants

We’re thrilled to feature the American Beauties Native Plants program by Prides Corner Farms. This initiative offers a curated selection of native plants that are both beautiful and beneficial to pollinators. Each plant comes in distinctive packaging with informative tags, making it easy to choose the right plant for your garden.

Some standout selections include:

• Asclepias tuberosa (Butterfly Weed): Vibrant orange blooms that are a magnet for monarch butterflies.

• Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower): A hardy perennial that provides nectar for bees and butterflies.

• Monarda didyma (Bee Balm): Fragrant flowers that attract hummingbirds and pollinators alike.

• Spigella marilandica ‘Little Red Head’: Striking red tubular flowers that hummingbirds can’t resist.

• Pycnanthemum pilosum (Hairy Mountain Mint): A powerhouse pollinator plant with silvery foliage and nectar-rich blooms.

Visit Us and Make a Difference

Our garden center is stocked with lots of native plants, including annuals, perennials, shrubs, and trees. Whether you have a sprawling yard or a cozy balcony, there’s a native plant perfect for your space.

And don’t forget—pollinator education can be fun for the whole family! Pick up one of our free Pollinator Sticker Cards and help kids learn to identify bees, butterflies, and their favorite flowers while playing and exploring outside.

Every plant counts, and every gardener—no matter their size or age—can make a difference. Let’s keep the buzz going all summer long!

Happy National Pollinator Month!