Supporting Wild Bees with Native Plants: A Guide from the Pollinator Forage List
Wild bees are vital to the health of our ecosystems and the productivity of our gardens and farms. These unsung heroes of pollination are facing numerous challenges, from habitat loss to climate change. One of the most effective ways we can support them is by planting native plants. The Washington State Department of Agriculture’s Pollinator Forage List is an excellent resource for selecting native plants that provide essential nourishment and habitat for wild bees in the Pacific Northwest. This list is new as of June 2024 and has a downloadable Excel sheet that allows you to filter by things like “dry site” or “Clark County.”
The Importance of Native Plants for Wild Bees
Native plants and wild bees have evolved together, creating a symbiotic relationship where both thrive. Native plants offer the perfect nectar and pollen that wild bees need, while wild bees are adapted to pollinate these plants efficiently. By planting native species, we support the entire life cycle of wild bees, from nesting to foraging.
Top Native Plants for Wild Bees from the Pollinator Forage List
Here are some standout native plants from the Pollinator Forage List that are particularly beneficial for wild bees:
Early Bloomers:
Oregon Grape (Mahonia aquifolium): This early spring bloomer provides essential nectar and pollen when bees are emerging from hibernation.
Salmonberry (Rubus spectabilis): Another early bloomer, salmonberry offers abundant nectar and pollen for early foragers.
Mid-Season Blooms:
Red-Osier Dogwood (Cornus sericea): This mid-season bloomer is a favorite among wild bees for its plentiful nectar.
Pacific Ninebark (Physocarpus capitatus): With its clusters of white flowers, Pacific Ninebark is a magnet for a variety of wild bee species.
Late Season Support:
Goldenrod (Solidago spp.): Goldenrod blooms in late summer and fall, providing vital resources for bees preparing for winter.
Douglas Aster (Symphyotrichum subspicatum): This late bloomer is essential for fall pollinators, offering nectar when few other plants are in bloom.
How to Create a Bee-Friendly Garden with Native Plants
Plan Your Garden: Choose a variety of native plants that bloom at different times throughout the growing season to ensure a continuous food supply for wild bees.
Plant in Clusters: Group the same species together to create a larger target for bees, making it easier for them to forage efficiently.
Provide Nesting Sites: Many wild bees nest in the ground or in hollow stems. Leave some bare soil patches and avoid heavy mulching to provide nesting opportunities.
Avoid Pesticides: Chemicals can be harmful to bees. Use natural pest control methods to keep your garden bee-friendly.
Benefits of Supporting Wild Bees with Native Plants
Enhanced Pollination: A garden rich in native plants will attract a diversity of wild bees, improving pollination for all plants, including fruits and vegetables.
Ecosystem Health: Supporting wild bees helps maintain the balance of our local ecosystems, contributing to biodiversity and resilience.
Beauty and Resilience: Native plants are adapted to local conditions, making them more resilient to pests and weather extremes. They also add unique beauty to your garden.
Take Action with the Pollinator Forage List
Start by visiting the Pollinator Forage List to identify which native plants you can incorporate into your garden. By choosing these plants, you will provide critical support for wild bees and contribute to a healthier environment.
