CONTACT US TODAY 2603 IA-23 • 641-673-5007 outerlimitstruckrepair. com
Photo by Donald Promnitz / The Oskaloosa Herald Jacki McCrae shows the flowers that are on display at the Dan and Jerry’ s Greenhouse in Pella. Though few of them are budding right now, they’ ll be an asset in attracting pollinating insects later in the year.
“ Lots of things can pollinate things, but a lot of people like to grow pollinator gardens because of the monarchs, because it’ s kind of the flagship thing promoting biodiversity within our gardens and in just the landscape in general, but to attract monarchs or moths or hummingbirds or all these other things that could pollinate.”
Monarchs migrating to Mexico are as much a staple of a Midwest autumn as the fall colors. However, they’ ve experienced a significant decline in numbers due to habitat loss and pesticide uses. But recent conservation efforts are bolstering the population once more. Pollinator gardens have been a part of this improvement.
Monarch populations are dependent on milkweed— both to lay their eggs under, and as a food source once caterpillars hatch— though Striegel acknowledges its appearance is often seen as less than appealing in a garden. But not all milkweed plants are the same.
“ And there are other species of milkweed besides the one we find growing in ditches that are very pretty,” Striegel said.“ The butterfly milkweed has a pretty orange blossom and it’ s much shorter. There is the swamp milkweed, which is more of a vibrant, reddish, pink blossom that
TheService, Quality & Price YouExpect!
( 641) 626-3471 Bus. 2073 Eaton Ave • Leighton, Iowa 50143
EVERY AGRICULTURE OPERATION HEAVILY DEPENDS ON THE RELIABILITY AND PERFORMANCE OF ITS MACHINERY.
We are here to address all of your agriculture vehicle needs, to ensure they deliver optimum performance season after season!
AG Services: Engine Maintenance • Transmission & Gear Systems Brake & Hydraulic Systems • Tire Repairs & Replacements & More
CONTACT US TODAY 2603 IA-23 • 641-673-5007 outerlimitstruckrepair. com
HERE FOR FARMERS!
WE CARRY ESSENTIAL TOOLS AND QUALITY SUPPLIES FOR ALL OF YOUR DIY PROJECTS.
Stop in and see our Friendly, Knowledgeable Staff!
202 1st Ave E • Oskaloosa 641-673-5984 Locally owned by Glenda & Brian Booy
SPRING 2025 13