Native Pollinator Plants
The goal is to provide native pollinator plants that vary in bloom time from spring through fall, so monarch adults can feed from the moment they arrive in Utah in May until they start the migration in September. Milkweed serves two purposes: it's the only source of food for caterpillars, and when in bloom, it's an amazing nectar source for all pollinators.
Choosing pollinator plants that are right for your new habitat will be based on factors like the personal preference for all natives or a mix, all perennials or a mix, budget, and availability of seeds/plants.
The charts below feature Utah NATIVE plants, and were created for the Utah Pollinator Habitat Program, funded in part by the Utah State Legislature to get more pollinator plants in the ground throughout Utah. For more details on each plant, check the link above - there is great information available!
For complete details including photos on each plant, visit:
https://ag.utah.gov/pollinator-habitat-program/habitat-kits-and-seed-mixes/
URGENT!!
ASK YOUR GARDEN STORE IF THE PLANTS ARE CHEMICAL-FREE BEFORE PURCHASING!
A huge concern is that plants grown and shipped to retail nurseries are often sprayed with pesticides ("neonics") to stop insects from damaging them during transport and ensure they are still sellable when they arrive at the stores.
These same chemicals will be detrimental to any insect who ingests or feeds on the flowers - such as monarchs and bees!
Neonicotinoids ("neonics", for short) have been banned in Europe, and are currently banned by the state of California.
Mindy's Wildflower Seed Photos.docxNative Pollinator Plant List
Courtesy of Mindy Wheeler
Native Plant Conservation Project Leader
Quinney College of Natural Resources
Wildland Resources Department
Utah State University
Some suggested links for pollinator plants and seeds (or ideas!):
Xerces has a list of native pollinator plants for the Rocky Mountain area and shows them by bloom time - very helpful.
Grand Prismatic Seed Company is a local option that offers a native selection of seeds and are neonic free.
Gardenia.net has some great suggestions of plants, but isn't all-inclusive.
High Country Garden and American Meadows have seeds for our region specifically and do not treat their products with neonics.