Pollinator Parking Strip Project
Intro to Pollinators
What is a pollinator?
Pollinators are any number of creatures that help plants to reproduce by spreading pollen from one plant to another. In the Pacific Northwest, we have native and transitory butterflies, bees, hummingbirds, bats, beetles and other insects that help to pollinate our gardens.
What is a pollinator garden?
A pollinator garden is designed and planted to provide a place for pollinating insects and animals to feed, seek shelter, and reproduce. The gardens can be any shape or size, and will bring great benefit to humans and pollinators!
Why is Artemis Gardens pursuing this project?
Pollinator populations around the world are in decline, primarily due to climate change and loss of habitat. Some species are rarely seen anymore. We want to do any and everything we can to help them to not only survive but thrive here in the Pacific Northwest. We can do this by planting pollinator-friendly gardens. We hope that by investing a little hard work, we can bring back pollinator populations in our region.
The Planting Process
Preparing the site
In a process called sheet-mulching, we lay cardboard over any lawn grass or weeds, cover it in a thick layer of mulch, and leave it to decompose for a few months. The result is a mostly weed free patch of dirt that is ready to be planted.
Drafting a design
This step depends on location and the desired final product. Things such as terrain, color combinations, and target species all come into play. Our team of pollinator professionals works to design unique and multifunctional spaces that benefit both pollinators and people.
Installing the garden
After shopping around for the plants we select, our crew will be on site for usually 1-2 days, installing the design into the newly created, nutrient rich soil. With regular weeding and watering for the first year, the plants will fill in and grow up to be a haven for pollinators!
The Beneficial Results
Do a little maintenance and wait for the pollinators to come!
Within the first growing season and for years to come, the new pollinator garden will provide food and shelter for local and transitory species.
We provide maintenance such as weeding and transplanting services as needed. Watering is also very important for the first year or two.
You can also share in the bounty of your new pollinator garden and have fresh herbs and cut flowers for your home. There will be plenty to go around!
Want to Know More?
Artemis Gardens is taking on new clients for summer 2022 - spring 2023!
We would love the opportunity to give you a consultation and answer any questions you may have. Please contact us through the website. We look forward to hearing from you!
