10 Best Plants for Pollinator Gardens That Bloom All Season

Transforming your garden into a buzzing sanctuary for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds isn’t just beautiful—it’s essential for our ecosystem’s health. By selecting the right pollinator-friendly plants, you’ll create a vibrant habitat that supports these crucial creatures while enhancing your outdoor space with stunning colors and textures.

In this guide, you’ll discover the 10 best plants that reliably attract pollinators throughout the growing season, from spring bloomers to late-fall favorites. These powerhouse plants not only provide abundant nectar and pollen but also require minimal maintenance, making them perfect additions for both beginning and experienced gardeners.

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Understanding Why Pollinator Gardens Matter

Pollinator gardens are crucial ecosystems that provide essential habitats for bees, butterflies, moths, and birds. These gardens directly support 85% of the world’s flowering plants that depend on animal pollinators for reproduction. Without these hardworking creatures, our food supply would collapse, as one in every three bites of food we consume relies on pollination services.

Beyond food production, pollinator gardens create biodiversity hotspots in urban and suburban landscapes. They serve as vital stepping stones between larger natural areas, allowing pollinators to move throughout fragmented habitats. These gardens also act as living classrooms, teaching visitors about ecological relationships and the importance of conservation efforts.

Creating a pollinator garden isn’t just environmentally responsible—it’s also rewarding. Watching butterflies flutter between blooms and hummingbirds hover at flowers brings joy while contributing to ecosystem health. Even small gardens can make a significant difference when planted with the right pollinator-friendly species.

Choosing Native Milkweed: The Monarch Butterfly’s Essential Host

Milkweed plants are absolutely essential for monarch butterfly survival, serving as the only host plant where monarchs lay their eggs and their caterpillars feed. Native milkweed varieties provide the perfect habitat for these iconic orange and black butterflies while adding striking flowers to your pollinator garden.

Best Milkweed Varieties for Different Regions

In the Northeast and Midwest, common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca) and swamp milkweed (Asclepias incarnata) thrive beautifully. Western gardeners should plant showy milkweed (Asclepias speciosa) or narrow-leaf milkweed (Asclepias fascicularis). Southern gardens benefit from butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa) and aquatic milkweed (Asclepias perennis), which tolerate heat and humidity effectively.

How to Grow and Maintain Milkweed Properly

Plant milkweed in full sun locations with well-draining soil, spacing plants 18-24 inches apart. Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before last frost or direct sow after danger of frost has passed. Avoid pesticides completely as they harm monarchs at all life stages. Cut back stems in late fall to prevent disease spread, but leave some standing as overwintering habitat for beneficial insects.

Planting Purple Coneflower (Echinacea) for Bee-Friendly Blooms

Purple coneflower stands as one of the most reliable pollinator magnets you can add to your garden. This native perennial not only creates a stunning visual display with its distinctive purple-pink petals and prominent center cone, but it’s also a powerhouse for attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.

Benefits of Echinacea Beyond Pollinator Attraction

Echinacea offers more than just pollinator appeal. It’s drought-tolerant once established, making it perfect for low-maintenance gardens. Its medicinal properties have been valued for centuries, with roots and flowers used in teas and supplements to boost immunity. The plant’s sturdy stems and long-lasting blooms also make it an excellent addition to cut flower arrangements.

Companion Plants That Enhance Coneflower‘s Appeal

Pair your coneflowers with complementary native plants to create a pollinator paradise. Black-eyed Susans (Rudbeckia) offer similar growing requirements and contrasting yellow blooms. Native grasses like little bluestem provide structural contrast and winter interest. Bee balm (Monarda) and anise hyssop (Agastache) add different bloom shapes and colors while attracting an even wider variety of beneficial insects.

Adding Bee Balm (Monarda) for Hummingbird Heaven

Bee balm (Monarda) is a pollinator powerhouse that transforms any garden into a hummingbird paradise while also attracting bees and butterflies. This native North American perennial boasts vibrant, crown-like blooms in shades of red, pink, purple, and white that serve as natural feeding stations for pollinators throughout summer.

Different Bee Balm Cultivars and Their Unique Features

‘Scarlet Bee Balm’ (Monarda didyma) features bright red flowers that hummingbirds can’t resist. ‘Wild Bergamot‘ (Monarda fistulosa) displays lavender blooms with a delightful fragrance, attracting diverse pollinators. ‘Jacob Cline’ offers exceptional mildew resistance with crimson flowers, while compact ‘Petite Delight’ grows just 15 inches tall, perfect for smaller spaces.

Tips for Preventing Powdery Mildew on Bee Balm

Plant bee balm in locations with morning sun and good air circulation to reduce moisture buildup. Space plants 18-24 inches apart to promote airflow between specimens. Remove affected leaves promptly at first signs of mildew. Water at soil level rather than overhead to keep foliage dry. Choose mildew-resistant cultivars like ‘Jacob Cline’ or ‘Raspberry Wine’ for troublesome areas.

Incorporating Black-Eyed Susan for Long-Lasting Summer Color

Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia) brings reliable, long-lasting color to your pollinator garden from mid-summer through early fall. With their distinctive golden-yellow petals surrounding dark brown centers, these native wildflowers create a cheerful backdrop while attracting a diverse range of beneficial insects to your garden space.

Why Pollinators Love Black-Eyed Susan

Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators flock to Black-Eyed Susan for their abundant nectar and pollen. The flat, open flower structure provides easy landing pads for bees and butterflies, while the prominent center cone offers a rich feeding station. Goldfinches and other seed-eating birds will visit in late fall to feast on the mature seedheads, extending the wildlife value of these plants well beyond their blooming period.

Best Varieties for Pollinator Gardens

• Rudbeckia hirta (Common Black-Eyed Susan) – The classic biennial variety reaching 1-3 feet tall with 2-3 inch flowers
• Rudbeckia fulgida (Orange Coneflower) – A perennial species featuring ‘Goldsturm,’ a long-blooming, compact cultivar
• Rudbeckia triloba (Brown-Eyed Susan) – Shorter stems with smaller, more numerous flowers that create a cloud of blooms
• Rudbeckia maxima (Giant Coneflower) – Dramatic 6-foot stems with unique blue-green foliage and prominent cone centers

Growing Tips for Maximum Blooms

Plant Black-Eyed Susan in full sun to partial shade locations for best flowering performance. These adaptable plants thrive in average garden soil but appreciate good drainage. Space plants 18-24 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation, reducing disease issues. Deadheading spent blooms encourages continued flowering throughout the season, though leaving some seedheads intact provides winter food for birds.

Companion Planting Suggestions

Pair Black-Eyed Susan with purple coneflower, bee balm, and native grasses for a naturalistic meadow effect that supports diverse pollinator species. The golden blooms complement the purple hues of vervain, blazing star, and Russian sage, creating striking visual combinations while providing continuous nectar sources. For extended seasonal interest, interplant with early-blooming columbine and late-season asters to ensure your garden supports pollinators from spring through fall.

Growing Lavender to Attract a Diversity of Beneficial Insects

Lavender stands as one of the most rewarding plants for pollinator gardens, attracting an impressive array of beneficial insects with its fragrant blooms and silvery foliage. This Mediterranean native not only adds architectural interest to your garden but also serves as a buzzing hub for bees, butterflies, and other important pollinators. Here’s how to successfully grow lavender to maximize its pollinator-attracting potential.

Best Lavender Varieties for Pollinators

Several lavender varieties excel at drawing beneficial insects to your garden:

1. English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) – The most cold-hardy variety, surviving in zones 5-8 with aromatic purple-blue flowers that bees simply can’t resist.
2. Spanish Lavender (Lavandula stoechas) – Features distinctive pineapple-shaped blooms with “rabbit ear” bracts that attract butterflies and larger pollinators in zones 7-9.
3. Lavandin (Lavandula x intermedia) – A hybrid variety with exceptionally long stems and intense fragrance, perfect for attracting diverse pollinators in zones 5-9.
4. French Lavender (Lavandula dentata) – With toothed leaves and extended blooming periods, this variety keeps pollinators visiting throughout the growing season in zones 8-11.
5. Wooly Lavender (Lavandula lanata) – Distinguished by its silver-gray fuzzy foliage and deep purple flowers that butterflies find particularly appealing in zones 7-9.

Creating Ideal Growing Conditions

Lavender thrives in conditions that mimic its Mediterranean origins:

1. Soil Requirements – Plant in well-draining, alkaline soil with a pH between 6.5-8.0. Amend heavy clay soils with coarse sand or fine gravel to improve drainage.
2. Sunlight Needs – Position in full sun (6+ hours daily) to develop the highest concentration of essential oils that attract pollinators.
3. Spacing Considerations – Allow 18-24 inches between plants to promote air circulation and prevent fungal issues, especially in humid climates.
4. Watering Schedule – Water deeply but infrequently after establishment, as lavender prefers dry conditions. Overwatering is the most common cause of failure.
5. Mulching Options – Use inorganic mulch like white gravel or crushed shells which reflect light, improve drainage, and discourage fungal problems.

Maintenance Tips for Abundant Blooms

Regular maintenance ensures your lavender remains productive for pollinators:

1. Pruning Practices – Trim back by about one-third in early spring to encourage bushier growth and more flower production, avoiding cutting into woody stems.
2. Fertilizing Guidelines – Apply minimal fertilizer as lavender performs best in lean soil. Excessive nutrients produce leggy growth with fewer flowers.
3. Winter Protection – In colder regions (zones 5-6), protect plants with a light mulch around the base after the ground freezes, being careful not to cover the crown.
4. Dividing and Rejuvenating – Replace plants every 3-5 years as lavender becomes woody and less productive for pollinators over time.
5. Pest Management – Monitor for spittlebugs and aphids, controlling them with strong water sprays rather than pesticides that harm beneficial insects.

Companion Plants to Enhance Pollinator Attraction

Create a pollinator paradise by pairing lavender with compatible plants:

1. Russian Sage – Its airy purple blooms complement lavender while extending the season of pollinator-friendly flowers.
2. Yarrow – The flat landing platforms of yarrow flowers attract different pollinator species than lavender’s tubular blooms.
3. Catmint – Offers similar growing requirements with complementary blue-purple flowers that extend the bloom season.
4. Coreopsis – Adds contrasting yellow flowers that attract a different spectrum of beneficial insects.
5. Sedum – Late-blooming varieties provide autumn nectar sources after lavender has finished flowering.

Selecting Sunflowers for Late-Season Pollinator Support

Sunflowers provide essential late-season nourishment for bees, butterflies, and birds when other garden offerings diminish. Their large, pollen-rich flower heads become vital feeding stations in autumn, ensuring pollinators have resources before winter arrives. Select varieties thoughtfully to maximize their impact in your pollinator garden.

Best Sunflower Varieties for Pollinators

1. Helianthus annuus ‘Autumn Beauty’ – This multi-branching variety produces 4-6 inch blooms in warm autumn shades of yellow, bronze, and burgundy, attracting diverse bee species with its abundant pollen.
2. Helianthus maximiliani (Maximilian Sunflower) – A tall perennial sunflower reaching 6-8 feet that blooms from August through October, providing critical late-season nectar for migrating monarchs.
3. Helianthus ‘Lemon Queen’ – Research from the Great Sunflower Project found this pale yellow perennial variety attracts more native bees than any other sunflower, with a single plant hosting up to 50 bees at once.
4. Helianthus ‘Italian White’ – These cream-colored blooms with chocolate centers offer excellent contrast in pollinator gardens while providing accessible pollen for smaller bee species.

Growing Tips for Maximum Pollinator Appeal

Plant sunflowers in full sun locations with well-draining soil for optimal growth. Space taller varieties 2-3 feet apart to ensure adequate airflow and prevent fungal issues. Avoid overfertilizing, as excessive nitrogen promotes foliage growth at the expense of flowers.

For continuous pollinator support, stagger plantings of annual varieties every 2-3 weeks from spring through early summer. Leave spent flower heads standing through fall and winter to provide seeds for birds and nesting materials for beneficial insects.

Companion Plants for Sunflower Pollinator Gardens

Pair sunflowers with late-blooming companions like goldenrod, asters, and sedum to create a comprehensive autumn buffet for pollinators. The height diversity creates multiple feeding zones, accommodating different pollinator preferences and flight patterns.

Add herbs like oregano and thyme near the base of sunflowers to attract ground-dwelling pollinators, creating a multi-layered habitat that supports ecosystem diversity well into fall.

Including Native Salvia Varieties for Drought-Resistant Pollinator Appeal

Native salvia varieties offer exceptional value for pollinator gardens, combining drought resistance with irresistible appeal to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. These hardy perennials feature vibrant tubular flowers that serve as perfect feeding stations for pollinators while requiring minimal water once established. Their nectar-rich blooms and aromatic foliage make native salvias standout performers in sustainable gardens across diverse climate zones.

Best Native Salvia Species for Pollinators

1. Autumn Sage (Salvia greggii) – This compact, woody-based perennial produces abundant red, pink, or purple tubular flowers that hummingbirds can’t resist. Growing 2-3 feet tall, it thrives in USDA zones 7-10 and blooms from spring through fall with proper deadheading.
2. Black and Blue Salvia (Salvia guaranitica) – Features striking cobalt blue flowers with black calyces that attract hummingbirds and butterflies throughout summer. This 3-4 foot tall species performs well in zones 7-10 and tolerates partial shade better than most salvias.
3. Cleveland Sage (Salvia clevelandii) – Native to Southern California, this aromatic sage produces whorls of lavender-blue flowers on 3-5 foot stems. Its intense fragrance and drought tolerance make it perfect for xeriscaping in zones 8-11.
4. Meadow Sage (Salvia nemorosa) – With compact spikes of purple-blue flowers, this adaptable European native thrives in zones 4-8. Varieties like ‘May Night’ and ‘Caradonna’ offer extended blooming periods that attract bumblebees and butterflies.
5. Texas Sage (Salvia coccinea) – This heat-loving annual or short-lived perennial produces brilliant red blooms that serve as hummingbird magnets. Self-seeding readily, it creates sustainable colonies in zones 8-11.

Growing Tips for Thriving Salvias

For optimal performance, plant salvias in well-draining soil with full sun exposure. Most species prefer slightly alkaline conditions and actually produce more flowers with less fertilizer. Space plants according to their mature width, typically 1-3 feet apart, to ensure good air circulation that prevents fungal issues.

Establish a deep watering schedule during the first growing season to develop extensive root systems. Once established, reduce watering to once weekly in dry periods. This drought training promotes both resilience and abundant flowering, as salvias often bloom more profusely under mild stress.

Prune salvias in early spring before new growth emerges, cutting back woody stems by one-third. For reblooming varieties, deadhead spent flower spikes regularly to encourage continuous production throughout the season. In colder regions, apply a light mulch around plant bases for winter protection.

Combining Salvias with Other Pollinator Plants

Create dynamic pollinator habitats by pairing salvias with complementary native plants:

• Plant coneflowers and black-eyed Susans nearby to attract different pollinator species simultaneously
• Intersperse drought-tolerant ornamental grasses like little bluestem or prairie dropseed for structural contrast
• Add yarrow and native penstemons to provide diverse flower shapes for different pollinator feeding strategies
• Incorporate spring-blooming bulbs like alliums to extend the garden’s seasonal appeal

This layered approach provides continuous food sources while creating visual depth in your garden design. The varied plant heights, bloom times, and flower structures ensure your garden supports diverse pollinator needs throughout the growing season.

Planting Joe-Pye Weed for Butterfly Magnets in Moist Areas

Joe-Pye weed (Eutrochium purpureum) serves as a magnificent butterfly magnet in pollinator gardens, particularly in areas with consistent moisture. This native perennial towers at 5-7 feet tall, creating a dramatic vertical element with its majestic clusters of mauve-pink flowers that bloom from mid-summer through early fall. Butterflies, especially monarchs and swallowtails, flock to these blooms while bees busily gather pollen and nectar from the abundant flower clusters.

Best Joe-Pye Weed Varieties for Pollinators

1. Eutrochium purpureum (Sweet Joe-Pye Weed) – Grows 4-7 feet tall with vanilla-scented flowers and attracts the widest variety of butterfly species
2. Eutrochium maculatum (Spotted Joe-Pye Weed) – Features purple-spotted stems and performs exceptionally well in wet soils
3. Eutrochium dubium ‘Little Joe’ – A compact variety reaching only 3-4 feet, perfect for smaller gardens while still providing excellent pollinator support
4. Eutrochium fistulosum (Hollow Joe-Pye Weed) – The tallest variety at 7-10 feet with enormous flower clusters that serve as butterfly landing pads

Growing Requirements for Joe-Pye Weed

Joe-Pye weed thrives in consistently moist soils that mimic its natural wetland habitat. Plant it in areas that receive full morning sun with afternoon shade in warmer regions, or full sun in cooler climates. These plants establish deep root systems, making them surprisingly drought-tolerant once established despite their preference for moisture. Amend soil with compost before planting to improve water retention and provide nutrients for these hungry plants.

Maintaining Joe-Pye Weed for Maximum Butterfly Attraction

Allow Joe-Pye weed to maintain its full height during the growing season to maximize its attraction to butterflies. The tall stems provide both nectar sources and resting spots for various butterfly species. In spring, cut back last year’s stalks to about 6 inches, and mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Divide plants every 3-4 years in early spring to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding.

Companion Plants for Joe-Pye Weed

Create a pollinator paradise by pairing Joe-Pye weed with compatible companion plants:

1. Swamp Milkweed – Combines perfectly in moist areas while providing monarch butterfly larval food
2. New England Asters – Extends the blooming season into fall with complementary purple flowers
3. Cardinal Flower – Adds brilliant red color that attracts hummingbirds alongside butterflies
4. Great Blue Lobelia – Provides contrasting blue flowers in similar growing conditions
5. Goldenrod – Creates a spectacular late-season display that supports diverse pollinator species

These companions create a succession of blooms throughout the growing season, ensuring your pollinator garden remains active from spring through fall.

Choosing Goldenrod for Fall Migration Fuel Sources

Goldenrod (Solidago) serves as a critical late-season nectar source for pollinators preparing for migration or winter. These golden-hued perennials bloom when many other garden plants have finished, providing essential energy for butterflies like monarchs during their long southward journey. Despite misconceptions about causing allergies (ragweed is the actual culprit), goldenrod deserves a prime spot in any pollinator garden.

Best Goldenrod Varieties for Pollinators

1. ‘Fireworks’ Goldenrod (Solidago rugosa) features arching stems with cascading yellow blooms that truly resemble fireworks. This showstopper grows 3-4 feet tall and attracts countless bees and butterflies in late summer and fall.
2. ‘Golden Fleece’ Goldenrod offers a compact growth habit (18-24 inches) perfect for smaller gardens or front borders while still providing abundant nectar for pollinators.
3. Stiff Goldenrod (Solidago rigida) stands upright with flat-topped flower clusters that serve as landing pads for butterflies and native bees. Its sturdy stems resist flopping, even in rain.
4. Zigzag Goldenrod (Solidago flexicaulis) thrives in partial shade, making it ideal for woodland garden edges where most sun-loving pollinator plants won’t grow.
5. Seaside Goldenrod (Solidago sempervirens) tolerates coastal conditions and salt spray, providing crucial nectar sources in challenging maritime environments.

Growing Tips for Maximum Pollinator Appeal

Plant goldenrod in full sun to light shade in average to poor soil. These native plants have evolved to thrive without fertilizer—rich soil often produces floppy stems with fewer flowers. Space plants about 18-24 inches apart to allow for their spreading nature while preventing overcrowding.

Water newly planted goldenrod until established, then reduce irrigation. These drought-tolerant natives prefer drier conditions once their root systems develop. Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring to maintain vigor and prevent aggressive spreading.

Leave goldenrod standing through winter to provide shelter for beneficial insects. The dried seed heads also offer food for birds during lean months. Cut back stems in early spring before new growth appears.

Creating Fall Pollinator Corridors with Companions

Pair goldenrod with other fall-blooming natives to create a migration highway for pollinators. New England aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae) complements goldenrod perfectly—its purple flowers create a striking color contrast while extending the bloom season.

Add ironweed (Vernonia) for height variation and additional nectar sources. Include late-blooming native grasses like little bluestem or switchgrass to provide shelter and overwintering habitat for beneficial insects.

Plant these fall heroes in clusters rather than as individual specimens to create more visible “fueling stations” for migrating pollinators. This concentration of resources helps butterflies conserve energy as they prepare for long journeys.

Creating a Year-Round Pollinator Haven: Combining All Ten Plants

By planting these ten powerhouse species you’ll create a vibrant ecosystem that supports pollinators from early spring through late fall. Each plant plays a unique role in providing nectar food sources or habitat at different times throughout the growing season.

Your garden will become a critical lifeline for native bees butterflies hummingbirds and beneficial insects facing habitat loss. The diversity of colors textures and bloom times won’t just benefit wildlife—it’ll transform your outdoor space into a dynamic ever-changing landscape.

Start with just a few species and expand over time. Even a small container garden can make a meaningful difference. As your pollinator oasis flourishes you’ll witness firsthand the intricate relationships between plants and their pollinators while contributing to the health of our shared ecosystem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are pollinator gardens important?

Pollinator gardens provide essential habitats for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds that support 85% of the world’s flowering plants. One in three bites of food depends on pollinators, making them crucial for our food supply. These gardens enhance biodiversity in urban areas, serve as educational spaces about ecological relationships, and bring joy through observing these fascinating creatures in action.

What are the best plants for attracting butterflies?

Milkweed is essential for monarch butterflies, while Purple Coneflower (Echinacea) attracts various butterfly species. Other top butterfly magnets include Joe-Pye Weed, Bee Balm, Black-Eyed Susan, and native Salvia varieties. Plant these in clusters for maximum visibility and provide both nectar sources for adults and host plants for caterpillars.

How can I support pollinators in a small garden?

Even small spaces can significantly impact ecosystem health. Focus on native plants like compact varieties of milkweed, lavender, and coneflowers. Use containers for herbs like thyme and oregano. Plant in layers (ground covers, mid-height perennials, and taller species) to maximize growing space. Avoid pesticides and provide a shallow water source.

When should I cut back pollinator plants?

Wait until late fall to cut back most pollinator plants. Leave some stems standing through winter as they provide shelter for beneficial insects and nesting sites for native bees. Hollow stems particularly benefit overwintering insects. If needed, cut plants back to about 8-12 inches rather than to the ground for winter habitat.

What are the best late-season plants for pollinators?

Sunflowers, Goldenrod, Joe-Pye Weed, and Asters provide essential late-season nectar when other garden offerings diminish. These plants are crucial for migrating monarchs and other butterflies preparing for winter. Plant them in clusters to create effective “fueling stations” for pollinators, especially along migration corridors.

How do I prevent powdery mildew on Bee Balm?

Prevent powdery mildew on Bee Balm by ensuring good air circulation—space plants properly and thin crowded stems. Choose mildew-resistant cultivars like ‘Jacob Cline’ or ‘Marshall’s Delight.’ Water at the base rather than overhead, especially in the morning. Apply organic treatments like a diluted milk spray at the first sign of infection.

Which lavender varieties are best for pollinators?

English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) varieties like ‘Munstead’ and ‘Hidcote’ are excellent for pollinators in cooler climates. In warmer regions, try Spanish lavender (L. stoechas) or French lavender (L. dentata). All attract a wide range of bees and butterflies while requiring minimal water once established. Plant in well-draining soil with full sun exposure.

Are native plants better than non-natives for pollinators?

Native plants generally support more pollinators because they have co-evolved with local species. They require less water and maintenance while providing appropriate nectar, pollen, and habitat. However, certain non-invasive, non-native plants like lavender can also support pollinators effectively. A diverse garden with mostly natives and some beneficial non-natives offers the best support.

How can I create a continuous bloom cycle for pollinators?

Plan your garden to include early, mid, and late-season bloomers. Start with spring bulbs and early perennials like Salvia, add summer bloomers like Echinacea and Bee Balm, and finish with fall flowers like Goldenrod and Asters. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage reblooming and stagger plantings to ensure continuous nectar and pollen sources.

Do pollinator gardens attract unwanted insects?

Pollinator gardens create balanced ecosystems where beneficial insects help control pest populations naturally. While you may see some pests, you’ll also attract their predators like ladybugs and lacewings. Avoid broad-spectrum pesticides which kill beneficial insects along with pests. Accept some plant damage as part of maintaining a healthy ecosystem that supports pollinators.