Joe’s Market Basket encourages people to make pollinator gardens to keep species alive
(Image courtesy Joe’s Market Basket)
National Pollinator Week kicks off June 19
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, about 80% of all flowering plants and over three-quarters of the staple crop plants that feed humankind rely on animal pollinators.
Pollinator animals such as hummingbirds, bats, bees, beetles, butterflies, and flies make the variety of food and produce possible. This year, Joe’s Market Basket is recognizing National Pollinator Week, June 19 through June 25, by encouraging people to create their own pollinator gardens.
“One of the best things to do to prevent the decline of pollinators is to make your garden a landing pad for them so they can get their nutrients and sugars to pollinate,” said General Manager Andy Klos. “These insects and animals are critical to our ecosystem and the work of these pollinators ensures full harvests of crops and contributes to healthy plants everywhere. Without pollinators, the food we enjoy at home, at restaurants and at farmers markets would be a lot different.”
Over the past few years, certain pollinators like monarch butterflies and bees have experienced significant declines in population. Klos said planting even one plant in your yard can make a big impact on helping bees and butterflies survive.
“Certain flowers and native plants like salvia, milkweed, butterfly bushes and lantana can help attract pollinators to a garden,” said Klos. “Perennial plants such as butterfly bushes and lantana are also great choices that not only help pollinators but also give your landscaping that added pop of color.”
In 2007, the U.S Senate officially designated the last week in June as National Pollinator Week, to help address the declining number of certain pollinators.
Market Basket is a family-owned business with four Illinois locations in Edwardsville, O’Fallon, Godfrey and Troy and one location in St. Peters, Mo. Market Basket’s mission is to provide customers with an outstanding service experience and top-of-the line products. For more information about Joe’s Market Basket, visit http://www.joesmarketbasket.com/.
