As a steward of the environment we know that you, like other National Association of Landscape Professional members, have a vested interest in protecting pollinators which are essential to our nation’s food supply. Accordingly, in recognition of National Honey Bee Day on August 22, we encourage you to bring attention to the important role bees and other pollinators play in our society.
Here are a few ways you can take a leadership role in educating your community about pollinators:
- Install plants in the landscape that enhance pollinator habitats.
- Plant in clusters to create a “target” for bees to find.
- Plant for continuous bloom throughout the growing season from spring to fall.
- Select a site that is removed from wind, has at least partial sun, and can provide water.
- Engage in company stewardship of pollinators.
- Consider plantings on your company property that can provide foraging spots for bees. No space? Think creatively! Window boxes…a small tree…every site can be a habitat!
- Host a community educational event that will inform the public about the beneficial role pollinators play. Perhaps you can help a Boy Scout or Girl Scout group earn a badge with your teachings.
- Educate customers and others on responsible pest management that will help protect bees while keeping individuals safe.
- Encourage employees and other environmental stewards to follow best management practices to protect pollinators including:
- The adoption of integrated pest management, which includes a host of pest management methods;
- Carefully following product label directions related to product use, application and pollinator protection;
- Selecting pesticides that have low hazard to pollinators; and
- Utilizing application methods that minimize pesticide drift.
Educate by example and use National Honey Bee to let your customers know of your commitment to environmental stewardship.
