As a general rule, insecticides are more toxic to pollinators than fungicides and herbicides, but not all insecticides are toxic to pollinators.

Butterflies dance from one flower to another while honeybees gather pollen to take back to the hive for the production of honey.

This is pollination at its best. Pollination is also done by other bee species, some beetles, certain wasps, some flies, etc.

There are more than 4,000 species of bees in the United States, in addition to the honeybee, that play an important role in pollinating many crops.

Keep in mind that pollination is vital to the production of seeds and fruits on many plants.

Experts estimate that one-third of the human food supply depends on pollination. The pollinators are found on the blooming flowers of crops, trees, shrubs, weeds and native vegetation where they gather nectar and pollen.

Because areas visited by pollinators are many of the same areas being treated with pesticides, much concern has developed for the safety of pollinators and a lot of press related to pollinator health has brought attention to this issue.

The Pollinator Protection Checklist

The coalition for Urban-Rural Environmental Stewardship has developed a Pollinator Protection Checklist to serve as a reminder of good practices to follow for all pesticide applicators.

1. Read and follow all pesticide label directions and precautions.

2. Determine if the pesticide may be toxic to pollinators.

3. Understand local pollinator visitation habits.

4. Use an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach. IPM is a comprehensive approach to pest control that uses a variety of methods to reduce pest populations and minimize harm to human health, the environment, and non-target organisms. It focuses on prevention and uses non-chemical methods whenever possible, relying on pesticides only when absolutely necessary.

5. Always follow good pesticide stewardship practices.

6. Cooperate and communicate with others who are concerned about preserving beneficial insects, including pollinators.

7. Know the common symptoms of honeybee exposure to pesticides and what other stressors impact bee health.

8.Check for specific local ordinances pertaining to pollinators, especially beehive locations or designated preserves (if applicable).

Here are a few other things you can do to help the pollinators:

Plant a pollinator friendly garden. Think big but start small. Choose a small area or plant in a large tub.

When starting a pollinator garden strive for:

Abundance. Plant in clumps or drifts.

Diversity. Plant flowers with different shapes, colors, and scents.

Sequence. Plant for bloom succession, not all at once.

Local. Whenever possible, choose local plant species native to our region.

“Growing Green” is contributed by Diane Dorn, Lehigh County Extension Office Staff, and Master Gardeners. Information: Lehigh County Extension Office, 610-391-9840; Northampton County Extension Office, 610-813-6613