Gardening for Wildlife: Pollinators/Beneficial Insects

Why attract insects to your garden?

Did you know that only a very small percentage of insect species in your garden are considered pests? In the eternal fight against insect damage in your landscape, providing support for beneficial insects reduces the need for pesticides and other human based control measures. Creating an environment where these beneficials can thrive will eventually lead to a more balanced population of pest and predator insects in your garden.

Along with the beneficial insects that patrol the pest population, pollinators are an essential component in maintaining a healthy ecosystem. In addition to attracting other wildlife, like birds, providing plants for pollinators helps supports insects that help to pollinate food crops.

How can your garden support pollinators and beneficial insects?

Diversify! Large numbers of beneficial insects are linked to a higher amount of plant diversity in your garden. Try to increase visibility of your plantings for pollinators by planting in clumps.  

Try to avoid a neatly manicured garden. Letting your plantings grow together provides spaces for pollinators and beneficials to stick around and get comfortable.

In choosing your plants, try to plant native varieties. These plants have adapted to support local wildlife and insect populations and are an essential piece of the local ecosystem. Be sure to select plants that serve several functions (food, water shelter) as well as plants that look beautiful. Plant varieties that are bred for their beauty often have little to offer pollinators.

Avoid using pesticides if possible but if you use them, try to purchase formulas that have the least impact on bees. Avoid any products with neonicotinoids and try not to purchase plants that have been treated with it.  Take care not to spray on plants that are blooming and try to spray at night and when it's dry. 

Be sure to check out the rest of the guide for plant lists, books, videos, articles and more to help you create a landscape that insects will love!

All botanical names will link directly to more information in the Mt. Cuba Native Plant Finder or at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

Native Butterfly Plants

Native Plants for Beneficials/Pollinators

Native Trees and Shrubs for Beneficials/Pollinators