Here’s how you help us create a pollinator pathway through the District.

Plant for 3 seasons: spring, summer, and fall; aim to have 3 different species in bloom each season; and plant in groups, at least 3 of each variety.

Pick what you love. Some plants come in a variety of colors, so read labels carefully. Different colors attract different pollinators.

Plants can range from 6″-6′ Consider the size of your space. For example: Tall plants can look great against a wall or fence; Walkways can look beautiful lined with knee high blooms.

Nature offers plants that bloom early spring through late fall. Pair early flowers with later bloomers to have color all season.

Host plants support pollinators throughout their life cycle as homes and as food. Some species need specific plants.  Monarch butterflies, for example, require Asclepias species for their survival as they are the only plants on which the caterpillars can feed. Other plants are beautiful and good nectar (food) sources. With a mixture of larval host plants and nectar sources you can attract pollinators throughout their life cycles.

While native plants are essential host and nectar plants, some non-native plants are good nectar sources. Limit the use of non-native species to 15% or less of your pollinator garden.  Also, it is more beneficial for the pollinators to use straight species as often as possible rather than hybrids that are often developed for commercial sale.

Some pollinators are supported by many types of plants (“generalists”); some plants are the only source for specific pollinators (“specialists”). Plant for the specialists since their plants also serve generalists.

Annual flowers need to be replanted every Spring. Perennials return year after year. Both have value to the pollinators. Some recommended annuals include zinnias, cosmos, and sunflowers. Pollinators also love annual herbs when they flower: Dill, Parsley, and Cilantro are common favorites.