spring Gardening tips!

Grow native plants! Many are beautiful flowering plants and are an excellent source of pollen for birds (for example, hummingbirds, bees, butterflies and other beneficial insects). Caterpillars, like the Monarch and swallowtail butterflies, depend on the leaves of native plants as a food source as they grow. Leaving the seed pods on perennial plants also provides a source of food for birds in the winter.

Something a gardener might not think of in going organic is that the non-use of pesticides will save many bees

by Margaret DeStefano

and other beneficial insects. One of the most important is our honey bees and other native bees. They are so important to pollinating our fruits and vegetables. Buying organic honey also supports natural beekeeping practices. If you’re not planting a garden or if you want to supplement what you grow, buy locally. Check out local farmers markets, as there are many health and environmental benefits from buying from local farms and orchards. Check to see if they are organically produced. Buying locally also means fresher produce and a reduction of air-polluting fossil fuels.