Helping Pollinators Thrive During a Drought

The entrance to my backyard garden

Hello, fellow garden enthusiasts!

If you’ve been in New Mexico for a while, you know we’ve been experiencing drought conditions for the past few years. While water is scarce, our pollinators still need our support. Here are some tips to help bees, butterflies, and other pollinators thrive even in dry times.

Choose Drought-Tolerant Plants

When water is limited, selecting drought-tolerant plants is crucial. These plants not only survive with minimal water but also provide essential nectar and pollen for pollinators. Some great choices for New Mexico gardens include:

• Lavender (Lavandula spp.)

• Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia)

• Desert Marigold (Baileya multiradiata)

• Penstemon (Penstemon spp.)

• Yarrow (Achillea spp.)

These hardy plants can add color and life to your garden while supporting pollinators.

Mulch, Mulch, Mulch

Mulching helps retain soil moisture, reduces the need for frequent watering, and keeps plant roots cool. Organic mulch, like wood chips or straw, also improves soil health as it breaks down. By mulching your garden, you create a more hospitable environment for both plants and pollinators.

Provide Water Sources

Even in a drought, pollinators need water. Create shallow water sources by filling a dish with water and adding stones or marbles for bees and butterflies to land on. Refill the dish regularly to ensure a constant water supply. Remember, a little goes a long way in helping our thirsty pollinators.

Plant Native Species

Native plants are well-adapted to local conditions and often require less water than non-native varieties. They also provide familiar food sources for native pollinators. Some New Mexico natives to consider are:

• Apache Plume (Fallugia paradoxa)

• Fourwing Saltbush (Atriplex canescens)

• Indian Blanketflower (Gaillardia pulchella)

• Bee Balm (Monarda fistulosa)

Reduce or Eliminate Pesticides

Pesticides can be harmful to pollinators, especially when they are already stressed by drought conditions. Opt for organic gardening methods and introduce beneficial insects to control pests naturally. Your garden will become a safer haven for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Create Shelter and Nesting Sites

Pollinators need places to rest and nest, particularly during challenging weather. Leave some areas of your garden a bit wild with bare soil, piles of leaves, or even a bee hotel. These small changes can make a big difference in providing habitat for pollinators.

Practice Efficient Watering

When you do water, make it count. Water early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation. Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses to deliver water directly to the roots of plants, minimizing waste.

Join the Community Effort

Helping pollinators during a drought is a community effort. Share plants and gardening tips with your neighbors, support local nurseries that sell native and drought-tolerant plants, and spread the word about the importance of pollinators.

Stay Positive and Keep Gardening

While drought conditions can be challenging, your efforts to support pollinators are more important than ever. By making mindful choices and adapting your gardening practices, you can create a thriving, pollinator-friendly garden that withstands the dry spells.

Together, we can ensure that our gardens remain vibrant sanctuaries for pollinators, even in the toughest of times.

Happy gardening, and may your garden always be buzzing with life!