As the warm summer days finally give way to the crispness of autumn, many of us begin to prepare our gardens and yards for the winter months. The common practice involves raking up fallen leaves, cleaning out garden beds, and ensuring our landscapes look neat and tidy. But what if, by striving for this well-kept appearance, we’re inadvertently removing vital wintering habitats for native bees and other beneficial insects?

The Importance of Autumn in the Pollinator’s Life

Autumn is not just a transitional period for plants; it’s also a crucial time for many of our native bee species. While honeybees are known to overwinter in hives, the majority of our native bee species, which often go unnoticed, spend the colder months tucked away in the soil, hollow stems, or leaf litter. Ground-nesting bees, which make up approximately seventy percent of native bee species in the United States, especially benefit from undisturbed soils and leafy cover.

Why You Should Leave Those Leaves

Instead of raking and bagging up all those fallen leaves, consider leaving some of them as-is. Here’s why:

1. Natural Insulation: Leaf piles act as natural insulators. Beneath that pile, the soil remains stable and protected, offering a refuge for bees and other insects.
2. Protection from Predators: Leaf litter offers ground-nesting bees protection from predators, giving them a better chance of survival.
3. Vital Nutrients: As leaves decompose, they enrich the soil, making it more fertile for your plants in the coming spring.

Steps to Support Native Bees this Fall

1. Create a Leaf Pile Sanctuary: Designate a corner of your garden or yard for leaf piles. If you’re worried about the leaves blowing away, surround the pile with a low barrier.
2. Avoid Pesticides: Pesticides can contaminate the soil and harm the very creatures we’re trying to protect. Strive for a pesticide-free garden, especially in areas you’re leaving for pollinators.
3. Provide Late-Season Forage: Plants like the Douglas asters, which bloom late into the season, provide a vital food source for pollinators still active in the fall.
4. Educate and Collaborate: Share your knowledge with neighbors. Creating a collective effort in your neighborhood can lead to more extensive pollinator-friendly zones and increased awareness of their importance.

Final Thoughts

As we enjoy the beauty of fall, let’s also think about the creatures preparing for the winter months. By making minor changes to our autumn gardening practices, we can support a diverse range of pollinators, ensuring they are around to grace our gardens when spring returns.