At Homestead Gardens , we want to connect the dots for our customers to create a habitat for the type of pollinator they wish to attract . It ’ s easy for consumers to create a pollinator haven regardless of their space — whether in their backyard or even a balcony . We seek to help people understand that even the little changes count and that every decision consumers take to help pollinators and to be involved in local pollination efforts matters . Once the connection is made , wonderful things begin to happen : outdoor spaces feel happier and the great outdoors become a more dynamic , interactive , learning area for families . Last year we established a Pollinator Cafe ’ in our outside plant area to show people just how easy , creative and fun building a pollinator garden can be .
While national a global coalitions seek to improve pollinator populations , a group of concerned grassroots activists , municipal leaders and scientists set out to create a formula for local governments to better address how to create healthy pollinator habitats on a larger scale . The goal of Bee City USA is to make natural enhancements to urban areas in order to create larger and more interconnected pollinator habitats including common spaces shared by pedestrians and traffic , shopping areas , and waterways . Bee City USA offers a positive vision about the future of pollinators by partnering with towns , schools , libraries , neighborhood associations , garden clubs , universities , businesses , and others to raise awareness of the vital ecosystem service pollinators provide .
In 2016 , the City of Annapolis became a Bee City USA chapter city . In April 2017 , the Annapolis chapter hosted a get-acquainted fair at Homestead Gardens ’ Davidsonville store for local businesses who share our important common goal : increasing the quantity and quality of pollinator habitats as we grow and maintain a beautiful life for humans as well as the bees , birds , butterflies and bats who share our world .
I invite everyone to get involved with creating a pollinator habitat . Every effort makes a difference .
Pollinator s Gardens Should :
› USE PLANTS THAT PROVIDE NECTAR AND POLLEN SOURCES
› PROVIDE A WATER SOURCE
› BE SITUATED IN SUNNY AREAS WITH WIND BREAKS
› CREATE LARGE “ POLLINATOR TARGETS ” OF NATIVE OR NON-INVASIVE PLANTS
› ESTABLISH CONTINUOUS BLOOM THROUGHOUT THE GROWING SEASON
› ELIMINATE OR MINIMIZE THE IMPACT OF PESTICIDES .
Op-Ed by Brian Riddle , Owner , Homestead Gardens . Davidsonville , 410.798.5000 | Severna Park , 410.384.7966
Homestead Gardens has locations in Davidsonville and Severna Park . Learn more about their efforts to support pollinators on their website and blog at www . homesteadgardens . com
GREENBOOK | SUMMER 2017 47