Native bees are the quiet backbone of our gardens.

While honeybees get the headlines, North America is home to over 4,000 species of native bees—from fuzzy bumblebees to tiny metallic sweat bees. These incredible pollinators are vital to our food supply and ecosystems, but they face growing threats from habitat loss, pesticides, and climate change.

The good news? You don’t need to be a beekeeper to make a difference. This fall, you can turn your garden into a pollinator refuge with just a few simple changes.

1. Ditch the Chemicals, Embrace the Weeds

One of the most powerful actions you can take is saying no to pesticides and herbicides.

• Avoid neonicotinoids—these common pesticides linger in plants and harm bees long after application.
• Welcome weeds—plants like clover and dandelions provide crucial late-season nectar when other flowers are gone.

A “perfect” lawn may look tidy, but a diverse lawn is a pollinator buffet.

2. Plant a Pollinator Paradise for Next Spring

Fall planting isn’t just for bulbs—it’s prime time to set up a bee-friendly garden.

• Choose native plants that evolved with your local bees.
• Plan for continuous blooms from early spring through late fall.
• Think beyond flowers—bare soil, bunch grasses, and dead wood all provide bee nesting sites.

3. Provide a Water Source

Bees need water just like we do. Give them a safe place to sip.

• Use a shallow dish or birdbath.
• Add rocks or marbles as landing pads.
• Refresh water every few days to keep it clean.

4. Rethink Your Yard “Cleanup”

What looks like garden debris to us is winter housing for pollinators.

• Leave leaves and stems until spring—they shelter overwintering bees.
• In spring, cut stems back to 6–18 inches—perfect for cavity-nesting species.

Your messy garden could be a five-star bee hotel.

5. Spread the Word and Get Involved

Helping bees is contagious—your actions can inspire others.

• Share tips with friends and neighbors.
• Join groups like the Xerces Society or your local native plant society.
• Support pollinator-friendly policies in your community.

Master Gardener Tip
Want a simple start? Leave just one garden bed “untouched” this winter. You’ll be amazed by how much life returns in spring.

Final Word
Native bees are in trouble, but every small action adds up. By skipping chemicals, planting for pollinators, and letting your garden stay a little wild, you’re giving bees the best shot at survival. Imagine every yard becoming a pollinator refuge—together, we can make it happen.