Tips for choosing your plants

When researching a plant or animal, use the scientific name, Genus species, so you are sure to get the one that you want. Common names can be used for more than one species and can vary from region to region in our country. Also, some native plants have been bred to create fancy new colors and may no longer have the nectar that the pollinators need. A native plant that has been altered will have the scientific name and then another name in quotes following it.

Check your state and local nonprofit groups. There are many groups with interests in pollinators, butterflies, bees, native plants, etc.

And, most importantly, when buying your plants, be sure to get them from a plant store that has been selling these plants specifically for pollinators. Many plant stores now sell plants that have been treated with insecticides so that their plants will remain “perfect” and not eaten by insects. You want plants that are going to be safe for insects to eat. And if you get a plant from a pollinator-loving person that has holes in the leaves or chewed-on leaves, you may be getting a free caterpillar with your plant!