Supporting Pollinators in Southwest Ohio

Pollinators are essential to the health of ecosystems and agriculture in Southwest Ohio. Bees, butterflies, birds, bats, and other insects play crucial roles in plant pollination, ensuring the production of food crops and the survival of many plant species. Here's an overview of their importance, the challenges they face, and how we can help.

Who Are the Pollinators?

Pollinators include:

• Bees: Key for many crops and wild plants.
• Butterflies and Moths: Vital for flowers.
• Birds: Hummingbirds pollinate specific plants.
• Bats: Pollinate nocturnal flowers.
• Flies, Wasps, Beetles: Contribute to pollination.

What Do Pollinators Do?

Pollinators are crucial for producing three out of four crops that yield fruits or seeds for human consumption. They facilitate plant reproduction by transferring pollen between flowers, ensuring food supply diversity and ecosystem sustainability.

Why Are Pollinators in Decline?

Pollinator populations are declining due to:

• Habitat Loss: Reduction in wildflowers and natural habitats.
• Pesticide Use: Chemicals harming pollinators directly or indirectly.
• Disease: Pathogens and parasites affecting health.

How Can We Help?

Sustainable Practices: Adopt sustainable agriculture and reduce chemical use. Choose native plants for gardens.

Plant Native Plants: Native plants are adapted to local conditions and provide essential resources for pollinators. In Southwest Ohio, consider:

• For Bees: Purple coneflower, black-eyed Susan, butterfly weed.
• For Butterflies: Milkweeds, essential for monarchs.
• For Hummingbirds: Cardinal flowers, wild bergamot, native honeysuckles.

Create Pollinator Habitats: Plant a variety of native flowers, herbs, and shrubs. Avoid pesticides to make gardens inviting and safe for pollinators.

Focus on Monarch Butterflies

Monarchs rely on milkweed and nectar. Create Monarch Waystations by planting milkweeds and nectar plants in gardens, parks, and other areas. These waystations support monarchs during migrations. Effective waystations should be at least 100 square feet with diverse plantings and adequate sunlight.

Maintain waystations by mulching, thinning, fertilizing, and avoiding insecticides. Remove invasive plants and ensure healthy soil conditions.

Hummingbirds in Ohio

Support Hummingbirds: Plant native flowers like columbines, bee balm, and trumpet vines to provide nectar.

Energy Needs: Hummingbirds require a lot of nectar to sustain their rapid wingbeats. A variety of native flowers ensures a steady nectar supply.

Migration: Some hummingbird species migrate thousands of miles. Native flowers help them refuel during these journeys.

Aerial Acrobats: Hummingbirds' flight abilities allow them to access nectar from various native flowers.

Supporting pollinators in Southwest Ohio is crucial for healthy ecosystems and sustainable agriculture. By planting native species, creating pollinator-friendly habitats, and avoiding harmful chemicals, we can help these vital creatures thrive. Let's protect and cherish pollinators, ensuring their survival for future generations.