Urban landscapes can be designed to welcome pollinators. See the comprehensive guide to protecting and enhancing pollinators in Michigan landscapes for information landscapers and gardeners can use to attract pollinators and protect them during pest management tactics.
What is pollination?
Pollination is important for home vegetable gardens and backyard fruits. Most fruit trees require insect pollination. Several vegetables including cucurbits (cucumbers, gourds, melons, squashes and pumpkins), tomatoes and peppers also benefit from bee visits.
Which pollinators might visit plants in my garden?
At least 460 species of wild bees are found in Michigan. Every pollinator require two things – resources (pollen and nectar from flowers) and a nest site. Though each species differs in the types of flowers visited, planting a variety of shrubs, trees, and plants that bloom throughout the season can make a difference in supporting bees or butterflies.
Resource on the different types of bees
Webinar on bumble bees of Michigan
Picking the right plants for pollinators
Creating the right habitat for pollinators
Bees nest in the ground or in cavities. These cavities can be rotten logs, trees, or artificial structures. Additional nesting sites can be provided for cavity nesting bees through installing bee hotels.
- Creating a smart habitat for bees
- Lawn alternatives to protect pollinators
- Smart gardening to support monarchs
A bee-friendly lawn is possible by including flowering seed mixes. Smart lawn care will protect pollinators.
News
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SARE supports sustainable agriculture learning opportunities for Tribal communities
Published on December 23, 2025
Two programs are available through Tribal SARE. The $5,000 mini grant supports workshops, conferences and demonstration projects on Indigenous food sovereignty, and travel funds provide $500 for Tribal educators to attend sustainable agriculture events. -
Now available in Spanish: New pollination management resource for urban growers in the Great Lakes region
Published on December 11, 2025
A free pocket guide PDF is available in English and Spanish to help growers create and maintain native plant habitat to boost crop pollination by native bees. -
Tropilaelaps mite information for beekeepers
Published on December 10, 2025
Resources for learning about Tropilaelaps spp., mites that can parasitize various species of honey bees, including Apis mellifera.
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