This page is a comprehensive guide on how to create a pollinator habitat. Anyone can use this as a resource! If you are a Lawns to Legumes grantee, there is additional information you need to know highlighted in yellow boxes. Also, one great resource for anyone creating habitat is the Lawns to Legumes Planting for Pollinators Design Guide.
How to Plant for Pollinators
Step 1: Assess
The first and most important step is to assess your yard. What areas of your yard can be used to install a project? Are there areas that are frequently used? How large or small do you want your project to be?
Notice where trees and existing landscaping are. Examine the type of soil you have. These are all a part of a site assessment.
You can print a view of your property from your county’s GIS map and draw your site map over it like the image shown below.
Step 2: Plan
Choose a project type and location.
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Next, choose your plants and other materials. We have a plethora of resources below for you such as plant lists, design guides, and more!
Then, find a source to purchase plants and materials. If you need help, check out the state Department of Natural Resources, this Wild Ones list of native nurseries or the Blue Thumb Partner Finder.
If you’re a Lawns to Legumes grantee, this list of native plant nurseries may be helpful.
Last, design your installation. Consider taking an online workshop to receive guidance and talk to a landscape designer one-on-one.
Lawns to Legumes Grantees:
Make sure your plants and other expenses are eligible before purchasing items. See the list of reimbursable vegetation and expenses. Remember to save your receipts! You will need them for your reimbursement.
Important: Cultivars and hybrids are not reimbursed.
An excellent resource: Check the Minnesota Wildflowers website for information on more than 1,700 plants — including if they are native or not.
Step 3: Install
Once you have purchased your plants and materials, prepare your project site.
Install your project. You can do this yourself or hire professionals to install it for you. Make sure to plan ahead of time if you are hiring a professional since contractors may be booked weeks, or even months out! See the Blue Thumb Partner Finder to look for contractors to install your project.
Lawns to Legumes Grantees:
Take “before” photos (up to 4) of the area you will be installing your new project. You will also need to take “after” photos (up to 4) when you are done. Please take your photos from the same perspective!
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Step 4: Maintain
The first three years of maintenance is extremely important.
Your new installation will need water and weeding in these first few years.
See the maintenance information page for more resources.
Step 5: Report
Congratulations on completing your project!
Map your completed project so we can share the impact of our collective work on protecting the pollinators.
