Insect Pollinators such bees, butterflies, and flies and beetles support plant health and food production. Homeowners can protect them with simple changes in yard care and planting decisions.

Timing is everything

When applying pesticides or herbicides, timing reduces pollinator exposure. Treat lawns and plants early in the morning or in the evening when pollinators are less active. Avoid daytime applications, especially when plants are in bloom.

Plan treatments around plant growth stages. Apply products before flowering or after petals drop rather than during active bloom. This limits contamination of nectar and pollen that pollinators depend on.

Weather also matters. Apply products on calm, dry days to prevent drift and runoff. Wind and rain can carry pesticides to unintended areas, including flowering plants and nearby habitats.

Manage Blooming Weeds Thoughtfully

Flowering weeds such as clover and dandelions attract pollinators. Before applying treatments, mow or remove blooms so pollinators are not drawn to treated areas.

At the same time, consider whether removal is necessary. If weeds are not overwhelming your yard, leaving some flowering plants can provide useful food sources. Allowing limited bloom in less-managed areas can support pollinators without affecting overall yard appearance.

Choose Targeted Treatment Methods

When treatment is necessary, reduce exposure by limiting how products are applied. Use spot treatments instead of broadcasting chemicals across the entire yard. Consider granular or soil-applied products, which are less likely to drift compared to sprays.

Always read product labels carefully, especially instructions related to bee safety. Labels often specify timing restrictions and methods that protect pollinators.

Before treating, check for nearby managed bee colonies using available online tools or local resources. Awareness helps prevent unintentional harm to active pollinator sites. The information regarding active bee hives could be found at FieldWatch Mapping communication tool. or The Apiary Map – Beekeepers and apiaries on a map

Provide Consistent Food Sources

A pollinator-friendly yard includes plants that bloom at different times of the year. This ensures a steady supply of nectar and pollen throughout the seasons.

Include a variety of flowering plants and, when possible, dedicate a small section of your yard as a pollinator area. Even a narrow strip of flowers can provide habitat and feeding opportunities.

Plant for Pollinators

The most effective way to support pollinators is by planting species that provide nectar and pollen across seasons. A mix of some recommended pollinator-friendly plants for Florida include:

• Coreopsis (tickseed) – Florida’s state wildflower; long bloom period
• Black-eyed Susan – hardy, attracts bees and butterflies
• Blanket flower (Gaillardia) – thrives in sandy soils; long-lasting blooms
• Purple coneflower – nectar source for bees and butterflies
• Milkweed (native species) – essential for monarch butterflies
• Salvia and bee balm – attract a wide range of pollinators

Native plants are often the most effective option. They are adapted to local conditions, require less maintenance, and support local pollinator species.

For more information follow the links below or contact your local extension office:

Attracting Butterflies – Florida Wildflower Foundation

Apps that help to identify pollinator plants.

UF/IFAS Growing for pollinator brochure.

Pollinator Protection: Beekeepers – Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services

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