Spring paints the world anew, with vibrant blooms pushing through the thawing earth. But these early blossoms aren't just a feast for the eyes; they're a vital lifeline for the first wave of pollinators emerging from winter slumber. Bees, butterflies, hummingbirds – these tiny powerhouses play a critical role in our ecosystem, ensuring the reproduction of countless plants. By welcoming them to our gardens with early spring blooming native plants, we can give them a much-needed boost.
The Unsung Heroes: Early Spring Pollinators
While honeybees get most of the buzz (pun intended!), a diverse cast of pollinators are active as soon as winter loosens its grip. Bumblebees, with their fuzzy bodies built for colder temperatures, are some of the earliest visitors. Solitary bees, a vast and often overlooked group, also emerge early to establish nests and find food. Hoverflies, those bee mimics with a taste for pollen, join the party, along with butterflies like the mourning cloak and painted lady, miraculously surviving winter as adults.
To assist these species during early spring, consider cultivating plants that offer nectar and pollen, which can be scarce during this time. Even a small plot in a modest patio or balcony garden can have a significant impact—choosing the appropriate plants is key. Aim for a diverse selection of plants to ensure a continuous supply of nectar and pollen from early spring to late in the season.
Native Plants That Bloom in Spring
Planting native flowers is the single most impactful way to support these early pollinators. Unlike non-native varieties, native plants have co-evolved with their local insect communities. Their flowers offer the perfect combination of nectar and pollen, providing essential fuel for hungry pollinators. Additionally, native plants support the specific caterpillar needs of many butterfly species.
Consider these early-blooming native superstars:
Jacob's Ladder (Polemonium reptans): Jacob's Ladder's lovely purple flowers will provide nectar and pollen to some of the season's first pollinators. This shade loving plant will bloom for several weeks in April or May.
Wild Geranium (Geranium maculatum): Add some beautiful color to your garden this spring with Wild Geranium! Early spring pollinators including native bees and several species of butterflies are drawn to its nectar and pollen.
Golden Alexander (Zizi aurea): Golden Alexander showcases brilliant golden, three to four inch-wide umbels that bloom for several weeks in late spring. This easy to grow, low-growing perennial will provide nectar to many pollinators. It also serves as a host plant for Black Swallowtails and Ozark Swallowtail caterpillars.
Wild Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis): Sporting vibrant red and yellow flowers, Wild Columbine is a favorite of hummingbirds and long-tongued bees. Its nectar-filled blooms provide a much-needed energy boost for these pollinators after the long winter months.
Spicebush (Lindera benzoin): This graceful shrub graces woodlands and blooms with fragrant yellow-green flowers in late March or early April, a beacon for pollinators before the leaves unfurl.
Tips for Creating a Pollinator Garden
A successful pollinator garden goes beyond just planting flowers. Here are some additional tips:
- Provide nesting sites: Leave some dead snags and fallen branches standing for solitary bees to create homes.
- "Leaf" it be: Hold off on your spring garden clean up until daytime temperatures consistently reach the 50s, if possible. Scores of beneficial insects hunker down for the winter in leaf litter as adults. Others do so as eggs or pupae.
- Diversity is key: Plant a variety of native flowers with different bloom times to provide a continuous food source throughout the season.
- Skip the pesticides: These harmful chemicals can kill not just harmful insects, but also the beneficial pollinators we're trying to attract. Native plants are nature's pest control.
- Let it go a bit wild: Avoid manicuring your garden. Leave some areas with loose, uncompacted soil where pollinators can easily burrow for nesting.
Read More: Spring Garden Care Tips