New Guide Supports Farm Pollinator Health

By Scout Nelson

As winter approaches, it is an ideal time for growers to explore resources that strengthen their farm management programs. One key area of focus is pollinator management, which plays an essential role in fruit and vegetable production.

Pollinators provide numerous benefits to growers by improving cross-pollination for crops such as apples and other fruits. For early blooming crops like honeyberries, attracting the right pollinators with companion plants helps ensure better fruit set and productivity throughout the season.

Supporting pollinators can be achieved in different ways. While many farms rely on managed pollinators, such as honeybee colonies, others build or maintain natural pollinator habitats.

Protecting these populations also requires reviewing pest management programs to ensure that practices do not harm beneficial insects. Following Integrated Pest Management (IPM) best practices—such as monitoring pesticide use and application timing—can help maintain a safe environment for pollinators.

To provide science-based tools for growers, the University of Minnesota, in collaboration with Pollinator Partnership, has released a new free resource titled “Supporting pollinators in agricultural landscapes: a technical guide for specialty crop growers in the U.S. Midwest.”

This comprehensive guide is designed specifically for specialty crop producers, including those growing vegetables, fruits, nuts, and flowers. It offers step-by-step advice on pollinator management, planting habitat areas, and protecting existing resources to boost biodiversity and yield.

The guide also highlights the importance of integrating pollinator-friendly practices into farm management plans to create a balanced and sustainable ecosystem. By fostering healthy pollinator populations, farmers can enhance crop performance while contributing to long-term environmental resilience.

The publication is available as a free downloadable PDF, making it accessible to anyone interested in improving pollinator health and sustainability in agricultural landscapes.

Photo Credit:istock-kerem-hanci