For years, the focus of landscaping has been on how to make the most efficient use of space and resources. But what if we told you that there was a way to design your landscape that would actually benefit the environment? We’re talking about designing for pollinators. Pollinator-friendly landscaping is a growing movement that Reno is already on board with. And we think it’s about time you get on board too! In this blog post, we will explore what it means to design for pollinators, the benefits of doing so, and how you can get started in Reno.

The Importance of Pollinators

In order to have a healthy landscape, it is important to have pollinators. Pollinators are essential for the reproduction of many plant species, including most fruits, vegetables, and nuts. They are also necessary for the health of many ecosystems.

There are many different types of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, moths, birds, and bats. Each type of pollinator has a different way of feeding on flowers, which helps to spread pollen from one plant to another. This process is known as pollination, and it is essential for the survival of many plant species.

Unfortunately, pollinators are in decline worldwide due to a variety of factors, including habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. This decline threatens the food supply for both humans and wildlife. As such, it is important to take steps to protect pollinators and their habitats.

One way to do this is to design landscapes that are friendly to pollinators. This can be done by planting native flowers and avoiding the use of pesticides. Creating a habitat for pollinators can also help to increase their populations.

Creating a Pollinator-Friendly Landscape

When creating a pollinator-friendly landscape, it is important to include a variety of native plants that will provide food for pollinators throughout the growing season. Pollinators require both nectar and pollen to survive, so it is important to choose plants that will produce both. Additionally, try to create a landscape that has something blooming throughout the entire growing season – this will provide a consistent food source for pollinators.

In order to attract pollinators to your landscape, you need to provide them with what they need – food, water, and shelter. Consider adding a water feature to your landscape – even a small birdbath can provide enough water for bees and other pollinators. Shelter can be provided in the form of dense shrubs or trees; just make sure there are gaps in the foliage so that pollinators can access the flowers.

Finally, avoid using pesticides in your landscape – they can be harmful to pollinators. Instead, focus on using mechanical or physical controls for pests. By following these simple tips, you can create a beautiful and functional landscape that supports our vital pollinator populations.

Tips for Designing a Pollinator-Friendly Landscape

When it comes to creating a pollinator-friendly landscape, the most important thing to keep in mind is to provide a variety of native plants that will bloom at different times throughout the season. This way, there will always be something in bloom for the pollinators to feed on. In terms of specific plants, some great options for Reno include:

Spring:

* Bluebells (Mertensia ciliata)
* Shooting Star (Dodecatheon conjugens)
* Clark’s Penstemon (Penstemon clarkii)
* Bird’s Foot Viola (Viola pedata)

Summer:

* Yellow composites such as Black-eyed Susans (Rudbeckia hirta), Coneflowers (Echinacea spp.), and Blanket Flowers (Gaillardia pinnatifada)
* Scarlet Gilia (Ipomopsis aggregata)
* Sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata)
*Purple coneflowers (Echinacea purpurea)

Fall:
* Asters such as New England Aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae), Purple Dome Aster (Aster decorum), and Sky Blue Aster(Aster oolentangiensis)
* Bidens such as Tickseed Sunflower (Bidens aristosa), Slender Flat-topped Goldenrod(

Plants that Attract Pollinators

There are many different types of pollinators, from bees to butterflies to hummingbirds. Each type of pollinator is attracted to different types of plants. By planting a variety of flowers that attract different types of pollinators, you can create a landscape that is attractive to a wide range of these important creatures.

One type of plant that is attractive to many different types of pollinators is the aster. Asters come in a variety of colors, including blue, purple, pink, and white. They are also relatively easy to grow and care for. Another good choice for attracting pollinators is the bee balm plant. Bee balm is especially attractive to bees, but it can also attract other types of pollinators as well.

If you want to attract hummingbirds to your landscape, try planting some trumpet-shaped flowers such as honeysuckle or trumpet vine. Hummingbirds are also attracted to red flowers, so adding some red impatiens or geraniums to your flower beds can also help attract these beautiful creatures.

By planted a variety of flowers that appeal to different types of pollinators, you can create a landscape that supports these important creatures and helps them thrive.

Pests and Diseases that Impact Pollinators

There are many pests and diseases that can impact pollinators, including viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites, and predators. Some of these pathogens can be transmitted by contact with contaminated pollen or nectar, while others may be vectored by insects or other animals. Many of these pathogens can have a significant impact on pollinator populations, and honey bee colonies in particular.

One of the most common and damaging diseases of bees is American foulbrood (AFB), caused by the bacterium Paenibacillus larvae. This disease can kill an entire colony of bees within a few weeks, and once present in an area, it can be difficult to control. AFB is spread through contact with contaminated bee products or equipment, so it is important to take steps to prevent its spread.

Another serious disease that affects both wild and managed bees is European foulbrood (EFB), caused by the bacterium Melissococcus plutonius. EFB is less deadly than AFB but can still cause significant losses in bee populations. It is spread in a similar manner to AFB, through contact with contaminated bee products or equipment.

Viruses are also a major concern for pollinators, particularly honey bees. Many different viruses can infect bees, and they can often be spread through contact with infected pollen or nectar. Some of the more common viral diseases include Deformed Wing Virus (DWV), Acute Bee Paralysis Virus (ABPV), Israeli Acute

Conclusion

Designing a landscape that is pollinator-friendly is important for the health of our ecosystems. By planting native flowers and creating habitat for bees and other pollinators, we can help them thrive. If you live in Reno, there are many ways you can make your landscape more pollinator-friendly. We hope this article has inspired you to take action and start making a difference for pollinators in our community.