In this Q&A episode, Hanna and Sarah tackle common questions about pollinators—what counts as one, why their populations are declining, which crops depend on them, and how gardeners can support them with the right plants and practices. They also discuss the crime of beehivery and whether or not you need to worry about someone stealing your beehive.
Topics:
Definition of pollinators: primary vs. circumstantial
Decline of insects and what it means for pollinators
Honeybees vs. native bees
Colony collapse disorder & hive health
Beehive thefts (“bee heists”) and commercial pollination
Pollinator needs in Nebraska crops: orchards, vegetables, sunflowers, pastures
Mason bees, leafcutter bees, and solitary bee behavior
Chemicals, grub control, and their impact on pollinators
Pollinator-friendly plants for containers and shade
Colors, shapes, and night activity of pollinators
Plants Mentioned:
Goldenrod (Solidago spp.)
Joe Pye weed (Eutrochium purpureum)
Butterfly milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa)
Zinnias
Sunflowers (Helianthus spp.)
Marigolds (Tagetes spp.)
Parsley, fennel, dill, carrots
Oregano, thyme, mint
Coreopsis
Heliopsis
Monarda
Geraniums
Penstemons
Asters
Fall anemones
Hardy hibiscus
Native grasses (general, overwintering habitat)
Orchards (apple, pawpaw, other fruit/nut trees)
Announcements:
Plants & Pints – October event featuring a special author. Tickets include the option to add the author’s book (discounted and currently hard to find elsewhere). Don’t wait—this event sells out every year. Big announcement coming that night!
Plant Sales – Ongoing Friday & Saturday sales throughout September. Great time to plant perennials, shrubs, and trees.
Tree Planting Season – Fall is the perfect time to add a tree to your landscape. Learn more at plantnebraska.org.
Links
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