Between 75% and 95% of all flowering plants on the planet need pollinators to produce their seeds. Our best-known pollinator may be the honey bee—but did you know that there are over 900 species of bees in Canada? Other pollinators include butterflies, moths, wasps, flies, beetles and hummingbirds.

Many pollinators are facing hard times in Canada and around the globe. But they can live and prosper in our yards if we protect their habitats. Protect pollinators and join Canadians across the country in taking the Bee City Canada Pollinator Pledge! And then spread the word and track your progress using #PollinatorProtector.

I Pledge to become a Pollinator Protector by:

 Choosing to create pollinator habitats by adding native plants to the garden.

A pollinator habitat is where pollinators live, eat, sleep and raise their young. Native plants and native pollinators have evolved together over millions of years, and they need each other. Even a small window box or balcony garden makes a difference.

Choosing to put in at least 3 flowering plants to bloom in each season.

Pollinators are looking for pollen and nectar as food sources from early spring to late fall. Let’s make our gardens bloom throughout each growing season.

Choosing to garden in a pesticide-free way as much as possible.

Pesticides can impact pollinators sub-lethally, by impacting motor skills and cognitive function, and even lethally. Pesticides are not needed in a garden setting, especially in gardens which contain native plants that are adapted to the region.

Choosing to reduce carbon output where possible.

Climate change is impacting pollinators by shifting the growing and blooming seasons of plants that pollinators depend on, leading to mismatches between when pollinators are active and when food is available. Climate change is even shifting the geographical range of some pollinator species.

Choosing to “leave the leaves” in my garden over the winter.

Leaving seed heads, berries and leaves in the fall and waiting until late spring to cut back plants will help protect habitats that pollinators need over the winter. Leaf blowers harm insect habitat.

Choosing to actively promote protection for pollinators and their habitats.

Let’s all spread the word by talking with others, putting up a pollinator-friendly garden sign, mentoring new gardeners and volunteering to plant pollinator gardens at schools, community gardens or senior residences. Share your experiences on social media at #PollinatorProtector. Check out the resources at BeeCityCanada.org. Find your own ways to spread the pollinator love!