Earlier today RTPI Development Director Linda Pierce pointed out to me that it was National Pollinator Week, a fact that escaped my attention – like many of those national days do! Just last week I posted a couple photos of pollinator plants about to bloom for the summer. Unfortunately I have not seen too many species of butterflies or bees thus far in 2016, though I am hopeful this changes after a slow and cold start to the insect season. Coincidentally today I actually saw a couple “firsts of year” butterflies including a Red Admiral in the morning and a Giant Swallowtail in the afternoon. Both were on the move and avoiding my camera. Maybe they or other pollinators will be enjoying this Echinacea milkshake coneflower plant soon. This pretty flower has bloomed, and many, many more are on the way. Besides planting beneficial nectar/pollen species and host plants in your yard it is good to have something that blooms in every part of the spring, summer and fall seasons. Some water for drinking and exposed soil for minerals are always helpful, and be sure to keep it natural – no pesticides! Now let’s bring on the pollinators, please…
Scott Kruitbosch
Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
