Tip of the Week

Are you award how much we rely on pollinators? Or that they are endangered? The non-profit organization Pollinator Partnership is trying to raise awareness of this vital part of our ecosystem and conservation efforts.

Most plants depend on pollinators to flower, set fruit and produce seeds. Pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, transfer pollen from one plant to another, fertilizing the plant's "egg" so it can reproduce. Encouraging pollinators will increase yield in your garden and strengthen a fragile portion of the ecosystem.

Ways to help our pollinators include planting flower varieties that they love, especially in areas protected from wind, and properly application of chemicals in the garden. When you are having pest problems in the garden, the experts at Delaney's can help you choose the best options that will control your problem with minimal impact on the bees and butterflies. Often time organic or low-toxic options are available. Also remember that supporting local produce and local honey helps reduce impact and strengthen the local bee population.

For more information on Pollinator Partnership and thier suggestions, visit their website: http://pollinator.org/index.html.

The following are varieties of perennials and annuals that pollinators love:

Borage

Dill

Parsley

Rosemary

Savory

Bachelor Button

Black Eyed Susan Vine

Bluebells

Chocolate Flower

Cleome

Columbine

Cosmos

Delphinium

Echinacea

Gaillardia

Hollyhock

Lavender

Marigold

Nasturtium

Poppy

Rudbeckia

Salvia

Shasta Daisy

Sunflower

Zinnias