août 3, 2019
READ TIME: 2 MINS
Just like us, pollinators need a place to hang out after a long day at the office (metaphorically speaking). And just like us, pollinators travel! While many people think of pollinators as honeybees, there are actually thousands of species of pollinating insects that are an important part of the food web.
Did you know that there are species of bees that live in the ground, inside hollowed-out deadwood and underneath loose tree bark? Though these bees don’t produce honey in hives like we’re most familiar with, they still contribute to the stability of the food supply.
One of the most helpful things that you can do to support these lesser-known pollinators is to stop chasing after the picture-perfect lawn. A well-manicured, often-mulched lawn is like a barren desert for pollinators—they need a little mess to feel at home (let’s be honest, most of us are secretly the same). Raking your lawn less frequently, leaving twigs and clippings where they lie, and offering patches of exposed dirt are great ways to create ground bee habitats. You wanted a reason to do less yard work this summer, right? You’re welcome =)
If you want to create a next-level pollinator residence and attract beneficial insects, you can always build your very own with repurposed and reclaimed backyard materials (twigs, small logs, pebbles, plant clippings).
Check out this great step-by-step guide from Fix.
PRO TIP: a pollinator hotel should be at least 6” / 15cm deep to create an optimal nesting ground for mama ground bees. They like things just so for when it comes to raising their young!
Creating a pollinator haven doesn’t necessarily need a big backyard or a lot of space, either. Check out the butterfly sanctuary we created on our 4’ x 8’ terrace at Nanoleaf HQ in downtown Toronto.
Don’t forget to check out the fun pollinator-themed design kits we’ve created! A portion of each sale will be donated to the David Suzuki Foundation’s pollinator program. Learn more »