Pollination occurs when pollen is moved within flowers or is carried from flower to flower by pollinating animals and insects such as birds, bees, bats, butterflies, moths, beetles, or other animals, or by the wind.

The transfer of pollen in and between flowers of the same species leads to fertilization and successful seed and fruit production for plants. Pollination ensures that a plant will produce full-bodied fruit and a full set of viable seeds.

Worldwide, roughly 1,000 plants grown for food, beverages, fibres, spices, and medicines need to be pollinated by animals or insects in order to produce the goods on which we depend. Foods and beverages produced with the help of pollinators include: apples, blueberries, chocolate, coffee, melons, peaches, potatoes, pumpkins, vanilla and almonds. In the United Kingdom, pollination by honey bees, bumble bees, and other insects produces millions of pounds worth of products annually. Pollination is vital both for the economy and for the quality of our lives.

There is disturbing evidence that pollinating animals and insects have suffered from loss of habitat, chemical misuse, introduced and invasive plant and animal species, and diseases and parasites. Nowhere is this more apparent than within the UK. And the European Union has been so concerned that it has invested over £13m investigating the status of pollinators in Europe.

So, what can we gardeners do to promote and protect pollinators?

1. Cultivate plants that provide nectar and larval food for pollinators.

2. Install houses for bats and native bees.

3. Supply salt or mineral licks for butterflies and water for all wildlife.

4. Reduce pesticide use.

5. Substitute flower beds or nectar-rich wild-flower meadows for lawns.

Here are some suitable plants available from Blooming Direct to attract pollinators to your garden:-

Asters, Blackberry, Buddleia, Calendula, Cornflower, Escallonia, Geranium, Grape Hyacinth, Hebe Wiri, Hedera, Hyacinth, Hydrangea, Lavender, Lobelia, Lonicera, Marigold, Marjoram, Mint, Nasturtium, Nepeta, Primrose, Raspberry, Runner Bean, Senecio, Thyme, Verbena and Wallflower.

Together we CAN make a difference!