Pollinators and our yards

Our yards play a surprisingly large role in the health of pollinators. Many common lawn and garden products used across the United States unintentionally harm bees, butterflies, moths, beetles and birds. Synthetic fertilizers, weed-and-feed products, insecticides and routine mosquito sprays can contaminate pollen and nectar or kill insects directly. Even herbicides that target “weeds” remove flowering plants that pollinators rely on for food. When lawns are managed primarily for uniformity and appearance, they often become ecological dead zones.

Organic lawn care offers a powerful alternative that benefits pollinators at every stage of their life cycle. By avoiding synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, organic practices reduce toxic exposure and protect soil biology. Healthy, living soil supports diverse plant growth, which leads to more flowers, longer bloom periods and better forage. Organic lawns also tolerate clover and other low-growing flowers, providing steady nectar sources in places where pollinators already live.

Specific plants commonly found or easily added to yards can dramatically improve pollinator habitat. Purple coneflowers are rich nectar plants that attract native bees, honey bees and butterflies, while also supporting seed-eating birds later in the season. Black-eyed Susans provide abundant pollen and nectar for native bees, hoverflies and butterflies during mid to late summer when food can be scarce.

Blue lupine is especially important because it serves as a host plant for certain butterfly species, including specialist caterpillars, while also feeding bumblebees and native bees with its early-season blooms. Dutch white clover, often dismissed as a lawn weed, is one of the most valuable yard plants for pollinators. It supplies nectar to honey bees, bumblebees and solitary bees and blooms repeatedly through the growing season.

When yards are managed with pollinators in mind, they become part of a larger solution. Reducing chemical inputs and welcoming diverse flowering plants transforms everyday landscapes into essential habitat. Protecting pollinators does not require wild prairies alone; it can begin right outside our doors..