What are the best plants for pollinators?
Not all plants are equal in their benefit to pollinators, and some plants are invasive or noxious. Native plants are plants that are part of the natural environment of a region, which have coevolved with their local pollinators for millenia. Selecting plants native to your region is a great way to ensure you are providing benefit to pollinators and the local environment. For more information on which plants support your local pollinators, check out our Ecoregional Planting Guides and Find Your Roots native plant finder tools. Check out the Native Plant Nursery on the Bee City Canada website for information on where you can purchase native plants near you.
Are honey bees native to North America?
Honey bees are not native to Canada, but rather were imported from Europe in the 1600s. Today, Honey bees (Apis mellifera) are managed for pollination services and honey production throughout the world. These bees are key in the pollination of many of the crops we rely on. Manage land or keep honey bees? Check out our agricultural guides for information on how to protect and support your bees.
What’s an of invasive species?
Invasive plants are species that are not native to the region and reproduce in a way that can disturb ecosystems. They can invade areas and outcompete native plants, affecting local environments and wildlife. This may impact pollinators’ ability to find food, form habitat, or lay eggs. When approaching plants you suspect may be invasive, first confirm their identity. If you are unsure about whether a plant is native, see our Ecoregional Planting Guides and Find Your Roots native plant finder tool for information on native species in your area.
Consider removing invasive species but do not compost or burn these plants to prevent their spread. Be sure to follow local disposal guidelines and wear protective equipment where appropriate.
For more information on invasive plants and their management, check out these sites and consult your local nature authority or municipality:
What’s a Bee house?
Bee boxes, or bee houses, are a popular and engaging way to learn about our native bee neighbours. However, if not constructed with the right habitat needs and health precautions in mind, these structures can harm bees rather than help. See our page on Bee Boxes for more information on these structures and how to maintain them.
What food do I have thanks to pollinators?
Pollinators are responsible for bringing us one out of every three bites of food! Animal pollinators support the reproduction of crops we rely on every day. This allows us to enjoy fruits, vegetables, nuts, coffee, dairy, and more! With the decline of pollinators on the rise, our food is on the line. See our page on Pollinated Foods for more information, including a list of foods made possible by pollinators and our Pollinator-Friendly Cookbook.