I am taking about the gift of a live plant for a special occasion or just because. What were you thinking? Gotcha. Adding a potted/planted flowering plants to your deck, porch, garden, etc. can add more than beauty, fragrance, charm, and perhaps whimsy to your outdoor living space(did I just use the word whimsy?) . You are helping a few of the planets creatures too.

Did you know? 3 out of every 4 of the planet’s flowering plants depend on insects, bats, birds and other pollinators to produce edibles like vegetables, nuts, and fruits. Let’s hit closer to home…1/3 of all the food the average person eats exists in whole/part as a result of pollinators doing their thing. And, those creatures are dependent on having something to visit to get stuff they hold dear like nectar and fruit. Pollination occurs when the animal pays a visit and brushes against the Stamens (male reproductive parts) and Pistils (female reproductive parts) and transfers pollen.

According to the National Academy of Sciences it takes approximately 1.4 million colonies of honeybees to pollinate 550,000 acres of almond trees in California (based off a 2006 report).

A number of events are causing a decline in the species responsible for pollination. Some include: invasive (non-native) species hurting local populations, shifts in climate, and pesticide misuse.

Why you will make a difference: Primarily, you’ll provide habitat/ food for animals and give plants a home and a reproductive boost. There are a number of low-maintenance flowering plants available in your zone. Your local nursery or mega-Home store are great places to get ideas. I have always been fond of the Fragrant Gardenia.