How do I turn my backyard into a pollinator garden?

Transforming your backyard into a pollinator garden is a wonderful initiative. You might want to divide your lawn into several segments and convert one section each year. Here are some steps to help you get started:

Plan your space:

Decide how much area you want to dedicate to the garden. It's beneficial to create diverse habitats. Consider incorporating groups of plants, such as wildflowers, shrubs and trees that bloom at different times throughout the growing season.

Remove weeds and grass:

This is the hard part. Methods include solarization — covering the area with clear plastic or cardboard and paper to kill vegetation — digging and herbicide sprays.

Soil preparation:

Once you’ve cleared the area, prepare the soil by adding organic matter or compost to improve fertility and structure. This will help support a variety of plants that will attract pollinators.'

Select pollinator-friendly plants:

Choose a variety of native flowering plants that bloom from early spring to late fall. This ensures a continuous food source. Some recommended plants for Oregon include:

• Vine maple (Acer circinatum)
• Tall Oregon grape (Berberis aquifolium)
• Camas (Camassia spp.)
• California lilac (Ceanothus spp.)
• Lupine (Lupinus spp.)
• Milkweed (Asclepias spp.) for Monarch butterflies

Here are recommendations for plants to attract Oregon native bees.

Planting strategy:

Plant in groups of the same species to make it easier for pollinators to find your garden. Ensure your plants are situated in sunny areas, as most pollinator plants prefer full sun. Additionally, leaving some areas of bare ground will provide nesting sites for native bees.

Water and maintenance:

Include a water source, such as a birdbath or small shallow dish, and maintain the garden with minimal pesticide use. It’s best to check with your local Extension office before applying any treatments.

For detailed information, including landscape map ideas, read this article and the the OSU Extension publication, Enhancing Urban and Suburban Landscapes to Protect Pollinators.