Did you know that one out of every three bites of food we eat depends on pollinators? From blueberries and tomatoes to watermelons and almonds, many of the foods we enjoy every day rely on bees, butterflies, birds, bats, and other pollinators to transfer pollen from flower to flower.
June is National Pollinator Month, a time to celebrate these remarkable creatures and recognize the important role they play in our environment. Pollinators help more than 80% of flowering plants reproduce, supporting healthy ecosystems, abundant gardens, and productive farms. Without them, many of the plants that provide food and beauty to our communities would struggle to survive.
One of the easiest and most effective ways to support pollinators is by planting native species. Native flowers, trees, and shrubs provide the pollen, nectar, shelter, and nesting areas that pollinators need throughout the year. Because these plants have evolved alongside local wildlife, they are especially valuable to bees, butterflies, birds, and other pollinators.
Here on our Sea Islands, native plant and habitat restoration efforts are helping create healthier environments for pollinators and other wildlife. Native landscapes not only support biodiversity but also help preserve the natural beauty and ecological richness that make our coastal communities so special.
Want to help? It’s easy:
- Plant Native: Add native flowers, trees, and shrubs to your yard or community spaces.
- Avoid Pesticides: Reduce or eliminate the use of harmful pesticides and herbicides.
- Provide Water: Create a shallow water source for pollinators to safely drink and rest.
- Create Shelter: Leave patches of bare soil, leaf litter, or dead wood for nesting and habitat.
Pollinator Week, celebrated this year from June 22–28, 2026, is the perfect opportunity to learn more about these remarkable creatures and the simple steps we can take to help them thrive.
Whether you plant a single native flower or create an entire pollinator garden, every action matters. Together, we can help ensure that the pollinators that sustain our ecosystems continue to flourish for generations to come.
