Quick Answer
Companion planting can improve pollinator habitats by incorporating plants that provide nectar, pollen, and shelter for pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, into the same area as crop plants.
Selecting Pollinator-Friendly Plants
When designing a pollinator food forest orchard, it’s essential to choose plants that are rich in nectar and pollen, as well as those that provide shelter and habitat for pollinators. Some examples of pollinator-friendly plants include lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), which attracts bees and butterflies, and coneflower (Echinacea spp.), which attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Planting a mix of annuals and perennials can provide a constant source of nectar and pollen for pollinators throughout the growing season.
Plant Density and Spacing
When planting a pollinator-friendly garden, it’s essential to consider the spacing between plants to ensure that pollinators have access to a variety of resources. A general rule of thumb is to plant flowers at a density of 3-6 plants per square foot to provide a diverse range of nectar and pollen sources. This density can also help to create a complex landscape that provides shelter and habitat for pollinators.
Incorporating Native Plants
Incorporating native plants into a pollinator food forest orchard can be a highly effective way to create a pollinator-friendly habitat. Native plants are often more attractive to local pollinators, which have co-evolved with these plants over time. By planting native flowers, shrubs, and trees, you can create a habitat that is tailored to the specific needs of local pollinators. For example, planting native flowers such as black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) and cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus) can provide a rich source of nectar and pollen for local bees and butterflies.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.