Why Go Native?
As we take advantage of end-of-season plant sales, beware nativars and cultivars. They often can't support the full life cycle of some pollinators. "Generalist pollinators”, like bumblebees and some butterflies, can go to a variety of plants for nectar, but others need specific plants, like the monarch caterpillars that eat only milkweed leaves. Also, some nativars that are mass-produced and shipped may be treated with chemicals due to regulations about vegetative transport. U sing chemicals in our gardens defeats the purpose of planting for wildlife.
Researchers conclude more study is needed before they can recommend which plants to grow, because natives, nativars, and cultivars can affect not only pollinators, but also whole ecosystems, the climate, and more. However, if you are really trying to benefit the plant aim for planting 80% natives and 20% cultivars. Mary Phillips of the National Wildlife Federation says, “Ideally, people should grow more pure natives in their landscapes. " Studies have shown that where diverse plants were installed (plants with good genetic diversity), butterfly and bee populations improved."
While research continues, experts seem to agree that native plants offer the most benefit for pollinators in terms of nectar, pollen, seeds, shelter, and nesting sites. Nativars and cultivars are further down the list. A handy tool on the NWF website lets you enter your zip code to find a list of the highest-performing plants for pollinators.
Armitage says it's important not to sweat exactly what you plant too much, though. "Certain pollinators like certain plants, such as black swallowtail butterflies that like dill. But if you just want butterflies and bees and all those other cool things, use common sense. Just plant flowers. We're blessed to have so many native plants [all over the United States] that are ornamental."
Phillips echoes this thought, saying, "You have the amazing power to do something right where you live to support and help bring back the ecosystem and declining wildlife species."