COOPERATIVE KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY FACT SHEET
Information about the Kentucky State University Cooperative Extension Program 2020
Louis Ross, Extension Assistant
Bees and other pollinators are integral to crop production and the landscapes they inhabit. Pollinators include bees, butterflies, moths, wasps, flies, beetles, ants, bats, and hummingbirds. It is estimated that there are around 20,000 species of bees worldwide, 4,000 of which are native to the United States (Kentucky Pollinator Handbook, 2016). 308,000 species (87% of living plant species) are pollinated by animals (Ollerton et al., 2011). Due to land development and habitat fragmentation, natural habitat for these species has seen a decline over the years. Many of these animals utilize wildflowers for food gathering and shelter.
When planting native wildflowers, it is recommended to have a mixture of several different species. This increases bloom frequency (how often there are blooms available to nectar eating species), which in turn provides sources of pollen throughout the growing season. A mixture of different species of wildflowers attract a greater amount and diversity (variety of species) of pollinator insect species. The Kentucky Pollinator Handbook (2016) recommends adding at least three different pollinator species in the pollinator seed mixture. Diversity of flowering plant species increases the ecological fitness (ability of populations to compete, cooperate, or construct within their habitat) of pollinator populations. Some benefits of native pollinator gardens to homeowners include reduction of pest population, prevention of runoff induced erosion, and a more beautiful appearance (Wrat-ten, 2012). It is recommended that pollinator plantings be interspersed with one or more species of native grasses (Big Bluestem and Indiangrass) to provide habitat and protection for pollinators and wildlife.
Due to their adaptations to local soils and climate, native plants are preferred over non-native species (Armbruster, 2006; Kentucky Pollinator Handbook, 2016). Mutualistic relationships (cooperation between species) are found everywhere in nature and more likely to develop in species that are native to the same habitat (Ollerton, 2006). Many plants that are used in home gardening are annuals and would have to be replanted each year. Perennial native plants are recommended for pollinar-tor habitat to encourage a continuous growth. These plants can be purchased from local native plant nurseries as plugs and sometimes as seed. Kentucky Native Plant Society maintains a list of native plant nurseries (https://www.knps.org/native-plant-nurseries/). The establishment of pollinator gardens both from plug and seed require proper maintenance and consistent moist soil. Some preferred native wildflowers for backyard pollinator gardens are:
Some preferred native wildflowers for backyard pollinator gardens are:
The biennially blooming flowers self-sow (seeds tend to fall directly below the plant) into open soil and can develop a consistent growing season stand over time. The prolonged floral display attracts butterflies and other beneficial insects. Seedheads serve as nourishment for finches and other birds later in the season. It is tolerant to a wide range of soils and moisture levels, but can suffer if in poorly drained wet soils.
With deep green foliage and sturdy stems, this flower keeps a striking form throughout the growing season. Bold, yellow-orange flowers are found at the top of dense bunches, two to four feet from the ground covering the foliage. Their nectar is a favorite of butterflies and other pollinating insects. They thrive in full sun but can handle light shade. They prefer rich soils and will need con-sistent moisture until established.