During World War I, food production had fallen dramatically, and farms were negatively impacted. The US National War Garden Commission launched a gardening movement called “Victory Gardens.” This campaign encouraged everyone to plant for a more sustainable life. Victory Gardens were a way for everyone to plant their own produce to help feed their families and our troops. This amazing home gardening effort resulted in a united home-front and over 18 million Victory Gardens in the United States.
Over the past few years, many Americans revived this historical concept and started their own version of a Victory Garden. During any time of uncertainty, gardening and easy access to fresh vegetables and herbs is a rewarding process. It reminds us of the importance of planting for sustainability. The need that inspired the original Victory Gardens can help a new situation – the decline of pollinator populations.
Pollinator Victory Gardens are important for maintaining our food supply and environment. Pollinators are responsible for bringing us one out of every three bites of food. They also help thousands of flowering plants reproduce, help prevent soil erosion and improve biodiversity.
Pollinators are important and vital to our ecosystems and our world. Add plants to your garden that attract and support Pollinators. Pollinator Victory Gardens can help us increase our pollinator population.
Here are some tips on how to get started with your Pollinator Victory Garden.
7 Planting Tips for Pollinator Victory Gardens
1. Design for consecutive blooms to last throughout the growing season
Different pollinators emerge at different times of the year. To accommodate the lifespans and periods of activity, create your garden with a selection of consecutive blooming annuals, perennials, and shrubs.
2. Plant natives to support native pollinators
Native pollinators have evolved with native plants. Supporting this natural process by adding native plants to your garden can accelerate pollination.
3. Plant a colorful array of flower shapes, sizes, and types of plants
Different plants attract different beneficial pollinators. The characteristic of each plant impacts how pollinators access it.
4. Add flowering trees, shrubs, and vines to your landscape
Woody plants can offer many benefits to pollinators. They can feed a large number of pollinators, be host plants for butterfly larval, and provide a habitat for birds.
5. Create a floral bullseye for pollinators
Keep it simple and help beneficial pollinators find their way. Plant groupings of the same plant to make it easier for the pollinators to locate.
6. Provide shelter, water, and feeders to your landscape
Bug houses and birdhouses are a great haven for pollinators to rest and nest.
Bird and hummingbird feeders can provide additional nourishment to our feathered friends and give them more energy to continue pollinating.
Birdbaths allow our beneficial pollinators to get a drink of water and allow them to cool off before their next journey.
7. Plant organic!
Plant with organic soil and fertilizers. Use Calloway’s Organic Container Potting Soil or Calloway’s Organic Compost to keep your garden natural and organic. Feed your plants with Calloway’s Natural Lawn & Garden Food.
Plants to attract Beneficial Pollinators
Start planting now! Here is a list of plant favorites for attracting butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees to your garden.
10 PLANTS THAT ATTRACT BUTTERFLIES
10 PLANTS THAT ATTRACT HUMMINGBIRDS
10 PLANTS THAT ATTRACT BEES
SHOP FOR PLANTS WITH EASE
To better serve you, at Calloway’s and Cornelius, we have convenient ways to shop for your Pollinator Victory Garden! Shop our local open-air stores or shop online for Curbside Pickup or delivery!
Stop by our plant store today and explore the beautiful selection now! Have questions? Ask our Texas Certified Nursery Professionals; they are here to help!
