Pollinator Gardening

Potential Species Lists for Gardens

Try to include native plant species that will provide flowering blooms throughout the entire season. As a general rule of thumb, plant a minimum of three species that will flower in the spring, three in the early summer and three in the late summer/early fall. If you're ready to get started, consider these:

• Blazing star (there are approximately seven species of blazing star)
• Butterfly Weed (there are nine species of milkweed that can be used, butterfly weed is just one of them)
• Golden Alexander
• Goldenrod (there are a multiple species of goldenrod - avoid Canada or tall goldenrod)

Sources for Plants

• Cardo Native Plant Nursery
• Possibility Place Nursery (wholesale only)
• Prairie Moon Nursery

Resources for Pollinators

• Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
• Pollinator Partnership
• Xerces Society

When to Plant

• The best time to plant largely depends on what form of material you are using.
• Seed tends to be less expensive, but takes longer to establish. If you are not in a rush and don't mind a more natural mixed look, consider using a native seed mix. Seeding is best done: October through April depending on seed mix.
• Plugs can cost a bit more and are usually available in flats. However, plugs typically have a higher success rate and provide more immediate beautification elements. You also have control over where the plants are placed, so the area can have a more manicured look if desired. Appropriate times to install plugs are: May and September to October.

Mayor's Monarch Pledge Commitments

The Mayor of Palos Heights is committed to encouraging and supporting efforts to improve and restore habitat for the monarch butterfly and other pollinators. The Mayor encourages all citizens to do the same. Schools, homes and businesses can all provide essential habitat that will benefit all pollinators and help them to survive.

With the help of staff at Lake Katherine, Palos Heights will install a demonstration pollinator garden at city hall with education signage and flyers available. Actions to be taken also include milkweed seed collection, expand invasive species removal to make room for milkweed and nectar species establishment, and working with city property managers to do more native plantings on city property.

Monarch Festival

Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Gardens' annual monarch festival also contributes to the Mayor's Monarch Pledge. More extensive information will be included in the education area as well as plant and milkweed sales and giveaways.