Home Grown
Pollinators—bees, butterflies, moths, beetles, flies, birds, and even bats—play an essential role in urban environments. While many people think of pollination as something that happens “out in the country,” it’s just as important in cities.
Why are pollinators essential in cities? For one, Food Production. Community gardens, backyard vegetable patches, fruit trees, and even container plants on decks and balconies depend on pollinators. Pollinators play a crucial role in better harvests of tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, squash, apples, peaches, and berries. Did you know that about 1 in 3 bites of food we eat comes from a pollinator-dependent plant. This is why pollinator gardens are so important in city settings. Can you imagine not tasting a fresh, vine ripened tomato that you can pick from your own backyard?
The second reason is Biodiversity and Urban Green Spaces. Pollinators keep parks, green spaces, and backyard landscapes blooming. Native wildflowers and ornamental plants rely on them to set seed and spread naturally, enriching biodiversity in urban ecosystems.
The third benefit is our Environment. Who is not worriedaboutourenvironment? With the ongoing development that is reducing rural and natural habitats, we need to really think hard about the role pollinators play. Healthy pollinator populations support resilient plant communities that filter air, absorb stormwater, reduce heat, and provide habitat for other wildlife.
The fourth reason is Community & Well-being. Research shows exposure to green spaces and pollinator activity can reduce stress and increase community connection. Flower-rich habitats attract pollinators that people can see and enjoy, adding beauty and seasonal interest to neighborhoods.
The fifth reason to have pollinator gardens in city settings is Education & Stewardship. City pollinator gardens create opportunities for schools, families, and community groups to learn about ecology and conservation. Theyserveas“livingclassrooms” that inspire stewardship of the environment, even in smallest of spaces.
So, have these discussions with your local city officials and hopefully they will see the positive benefits of pollinator gardens in city settings.
For more information on this or any other horticultural topic, you can contact Laura Payne, the Horticulture Educator in the Payne County Extension office. Laura may be contacted via email at laura.payne@okstate. edu, phone at 405-747-8320, or in person at the Payne County Extension office, 315 W. 6th, Suite 103, Stillwater, Oklahoma. “OSU is an Equal Opportunity, E-Verify Employer”.