Encourage Local Pollinator Preservation by Planting Keystone Species

In the quest to contribute to the world's biodiversity, gardeners can play a significant role by planting keystone plants specific to their ecoregion. These native plants, often overlooked, are critical in maintaining the health of ecosystems and nurturing essential life species.

Keystone plants, named after the critical element that holds a structure together, are native plant superstars. They support the most important species, such as caterpillars, Monarch butterflies, and bees. By adding your area's keystone plants to your garden, you're making a wonderful contribution this year.

North America is divided into 15 broad ecoregions by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Each ecoregion has its own list of keystone plant species, including trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants. For instance, the California coast (Ecoregion 11) boasts dozens of keystone plant species, including genera important for butterfly and moth caterpillars and pollen specialist bees.

However, the reduction of native flowering keystone plants is partially responsible for the decline in the bee population. The use of chemical pesticides and the popularity of non-native species also contribute to this decline. On the other hand, enhancing the supply of keystone plants by ecoregion increases the diversity and abundance of essential insect species that provide food for native birds.

Gardeners can choose keystone plants from various categories to include in their landscape, even if they don't have room for trees or shrubs. Many keystone plants, including milkweed, are endangered due to urban sprawl. Opting to plant keystone species for your ecoregion can help enhance natural spaces and play a role in the planet's survival.

Teo Spengler, a master gardener and docent at the San Francisco Botanical Garden, is an expert on horticulture and gardening. According to Spengler, "Keystone plants are more important than other plants because they have formed symbiotic relationships with native wildlife over centuries."

The worldwide web made up of all members of the food chain, plants, animals, pollinators, and useful insects, is an important one for the planet's survival. By planting keystone plants, gardeners can help maintain this delicate balance and ensure the health of our planet for generations to come. So, this year, consider adding some keystone plants to your garden and make a difference.