Earth Day is the perfect time to teach the importance of being good stewards to the next generation. Our sustainability team passed along some fun activities that can get the kids involved while teaching them that even the smallest change can make a big impact.
Plant a Pollinator Garden – Honey bees are the most important pollinators in the world, meaning that most plants rely completely on honey bees to pollinate. Planting gardens that attract honey bees can not only be helpful for the bees but it can leave you with a beautiful garden.
You don’t need a lot of space to make an impactful garden so this activity is perfect for families who have a little or a lot of space. A simple container garden can dress up a small urban space while still providing a great environment for pollinators.
After you’ve established your location, make sure you check your growing region. Knowing your region can help you choose native plants that will thrive in your area and require less maintenance.Choose a variety of plants in different shapes, colors and sizes. This will help attract other pollinators like butterflies and hummingbirds. Don’t forget to choose a variety of plants that bloom throughout the year, to ensure that your pollinators will visit your garden all season long. Bee cautious of pesticide use. Some chemicals and pesticides are harmful to bees and other pollinators. Make sure to check the label of any non-organic fertilizers you use before applying.
Make a Bee Bath – Just like all other insects, bees need water to survive making a bee bath the perfect addition to your pollinator garden. These “baths” are a simple project that you may already have all the necessary components for.
Start with a plate or a shallow bowl. Before filling with water, line the bottom of the bowl or plate with some stones or rocks. This will create dry landing places for the bees, and keep them safe from drowning and predators.