Celebrate Pollinator Week with Gardens That Support Nature

Monday, June 16, 2025

Pollinator Week, celebrated from June 16 to 22, shines a spotlight on the vital work of bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. These tiny creatures play a big role in fertilizing plants and helping to grow fruits, nuts, and vegetables. Without them, many plants would not survive.

In the United States, over 150 crops rely on pollinators. Bees, especially the 500 native species in Illinois, are among the most important. However, many pollinator populations are declining due to habitat loss and fewer food sources.

To raise awareness, University of Illinois Extension is offering a series of educational events. Their Four Seasons Gardening webinar series features a special session on native bees. Anyone can join at go.illinois.edu/FourSeasonsGardening.

Helping pollinators is easy. You can grow flowers that bloom from spring through fall, avoid harmful pesticides, and leave fallen leaves and stems in your garden during fall. These small changes make a big difference.

The Illinois Pollinators tool, available at go.illinois.edu/IllinoisPollinators, shares expert advice on plant choices, garden design, and science activities that support pollinators.

"People are looking to know more about pollinators and how to support their populations," said Nicole Flowers-Kimmerle, an Extension horticulture educator.

Across Illinois, volunteers maintain 172 gardens that provide food and shelter for pollinators. From educational gardens in Madison County to the Danville Public Library’s pollinator pocket, these spaces help communities learn and grow.

Since 2016, Extension has also tracked nearly 600 "pollinator pockets"—small gardens created by individuals. You can register your garden and join the movement at go.illinois.edu/PollinatorPocket .

“Each of these registered gardens helps sustain a healthy environment for pollinators and people,” said Horticulture Educator Ryan Pankau.

Celebrate Pollinator Week by planting a garden, joining an event, or exploring pollinator books at publish.illinois.edu/PollinatorWeek. Find local gardens at gardens.extension.illinois.edu.

Photo Credit: pexels-greta-hoffman