June is National Pollinator Month

National Pollinators Month in June encourages the planting of pollinator gardens of native, non-invasive pollen and nectar-producing plants. When these gardens bloom, they attract bees, birds, bats, and other natural pollinators.

The National Wildlife Federation initiated National Pollinators Month as a way to raise awareness of the importance of pollinators. Each of these creatures makes the difference between valuable fruits and vegetables on our tables and going without. As we plant and encourage these natural habitats, we're putting food on the table, too.

While we're planting native flowers and trees, we're also providing for our future. Pollinators such as the monarch butterfly and the honey bee have been in decline. While all the reasons have not been identified, increasing the available habitat does help! Encouraging the growth of natural habitats also attract pollinators.

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalPollinatorsMonth #BeeCounted

Do you have a spot that could benefit from a pollinator garden? Well, get planting! Find out which are the best plants for your zone. Visit www.nwf.org to find out more.

Try these tips to get started on the right path to a pollinator garden:

• Choose bright flowers - The colors and scent attract pollinators to your garden.

• Plant for every season - While this means primarily to choose a variety of plants so you're attracting pollinators all year long, it also has another purpose. In the winter, these plants may be dormant, but they will provide a variety of seeds for pollinators to eat, bringing them back year after year.

• Welcome insects - Most of them are pollinators, too. Good bugs have the benefit of helping to keep pests at bay.

• Invite birds to your garden - Add birdhouses, provide seed or flowers they enjoy, supply a water source.