Butterfly/Pollinator Gardening

Hayk Khachatryan, Alicia Rihn, andAlicia Rihn

Recently, pollinator insects have received a great deal of publicity because their populations are declining.

Kathy C Malone, Kathy C. Malone, Wendy Wilber, Gail Hansen, Jaret C. Daniels, Claudia Larsen, Esen A. Momol, andEsen Momol
Other Contacts: Keighly Graves

Xuan Wei, Alicia Rihn, Hayk Khachatryan, Xuan Wei, andAlicia Rihn

Hayk Khachatryan, Xuan Wei, Xuan Wei, Alicia Rihn, andAlicia Rihn

Recent pollinator population declines have led to in-depth investigations of the causes behind decreased insect pollinator health and diversity (Goulson 2013; van de Sluijs 2013).

Colby Silvert, Colby Silvert, Laura A. Warner, John Diaz, Cody Gusto, andRachel E. Mallinger

Urbanization and development of managed landscapes can harm pollinators by reducing flowers and vegetation and increasing exposure to chemicals. However, research shows that urban, developed landscapes can be designed and maintained to successfully provide habitats for diverse, healthy pollinator populations, including bees. Therefore, a major opportunity and need exist for residents, particularly those living in urban areas, to support bees and other pollinators by adopting pollinator gardening in their landscapes. Based on recent research about significant barriers and solutions, this publication intends to guide Extension agents and other practitioners on how to best encourage and facilitate adoption of pollinator gardening by addressing residents’ perceptions.

Jaret C. Daniels, Joe Schaefer, Joe Schaefer, Craig N. Huegel, andFrank J. Mazzotti
Other Contacts: Venetia S. Briggs-Gonzalez, Eric Suarez, andAaron I. Chimelis

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet for Homeowner audience(s).

Laura A. Warner, Colby Silvert, Colby Silvert, John Diaz, Cody Gusto, andRachel E. Mallinger

Pollinator gardening has rapidly become recognized as an important component of conservation to combat the issues that have resulted from rapid urbanization. Residential yards can support pollinators and help to restore their habitats. Thus, an opportunity exists for Extension and other practitioners to encourage greater engagement in pollinator gardening. However, research has indicated unique perceived barriers exist among residents in homeowners’ associations (HOAs). By focusing on perceived barriers, Extension and other practitioners can encourage positive adoption changes among residents and HOA stakeholders. Findings in this article suggest many HOA dwellers are unsure whether they are permitted to engage in pollinator gardening, and they may perceive that this approach to landscaping is incompatible with neighborhood norms. These barriers must be addressed at the resident and HOA leadership levels  to help more people engage in gardening to support pollinators.