Blinque's Butterfly Garden

Blinque's Butterfly Garden is Pollinator Stewardship Certified!

 

In 2025, Jen Lichtefeld took the extra step to show her commitment to protecting pollinators by completing Pollinator Partnership's Pollinator Stewardship program. Jen will use what she's learned to further promote pollinators through Blinque's Butterfly Garden. Here are some ways you can help, too!​

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• Plant native! Native plants are vital to insects in your area, plus they're going to thrive with less work than non native plants. No space is too small to create a pollinator sanctuary. When buying plants for your garden, be sure to use neonicotinoid-free plants if you want them to be caterpillar-safe.

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• Make your yard a no spray zone! Basically all chemicals made to spray your yard for pests or weeds can harm pollinators. Please try alternative methods for pest control. Some fertilizers are also toxic to pollinators. Do your research on any additive or treatment you are considering for your property.

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• Support local farmers and bee keepers! You can support them by buying local produce and honey.

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• Provide pollen and nectar plants for pollinators! Part of the reason these species are in decline is a loss of habitat and viable food sources. Planting nectar plants will give migrating pollinators a snack to keep them going on their way and help feed local pollinators. Nectar and pollen plants include trees, too! Native oaks, maples, redbuds, and black cherry are your best options. Keystone plants we recommend are oaks and goldenrods (which do not cause fall allergies).

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• Leave dead stems from plants that die back until the following spring! Some insects nest in these stems, even the tiny ones, so removing them too early takes away a natural home for them through the winter. Wait until late March or early April to cut them back or leave them to decompose naturally. 

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• Use puddlers or bee baths! These are shallow bowls filled with a small amount of water and sometimes marbles or pebbles. The pebbles prevent insects from drowning while they stop for a drink. Yes, even insects need a drink of water sometimes. These are especially important in the hotter, drier months. 

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• Spread the word! Tell others what you've done to make a difference.