Habitat assessment by LaurieH

LaurieH's picture
Assessment results
Answer givenOur advice
Do you have native bunchgrasses?: 
None.
Increase the amount of bunch grass in your yard. Many bees nest and overwinter at the base of these grasses.
Are there bee nesting blocks?: 
No
Supplement your habitats with nest blocks. Learn how to build them here.
What is the main type of vegetation in the area you are evaluating (park, garden, yard, farm...)?: 
Mix of native and non-native plants
Increase the amount of native plants in your yard.
How much of the whole yard, park, farm or green space is garden space or wild/natural vegetation?: 
Some. Between 21-40%.
Consider expanding your gardens and wild spaces and reducing your lawn.
How many flowers in your garden bloom in spring?: 
4-6
Add 4-6 more kinds of spring flowers.
How many flowers in your garden bloom in fall?: 
1-3
Add 4-6 more fall flowers to support fall bees.
How many different pollinator counts will your contribute this year?: 
Five or more.
We'd love to see pollinator counts from any of the plants in your garden as many times as you can contribute. Thanks!

Score: 169 (out of a possible 210)

I started growing herbs and planted a few plants I noticed the bumblebees liked. I evolved into an herb gardener for pollinators when a variety started showing up. I now will be planting as much native flowers as possible along with my herbs, bushes and a few tree, in time. Also working on area that is woody and brushy. My gardening practice is mainly for the pollinators and visually appeal.

Which garden or space are you describing?: 
Gabby's Garden
How large is your yard?: 
0.30
acres
Are there areas with bare ground and very few plants?: 
Yes
Are there areas with sandy loamy soil?: 
Yes
Are there low traffic areas where the soil is not turned over, tilled or plowed?: 
Yes
Are there areas dead wood, brush piles or snags present?: 
Yes
Are there areas with pithy twigs (elderberry, cane fruit, sumac, etc…)?: 
Yes
How much of the garden is planted with flowering annual or perennial plants (including shrubs, vegetables and trees)?: 
Most (more than 75%)
Are the flowering plants that you have pollinator friendly?: 
Most (more than 75%)
How many flowers in your garden bloom in summer?: 
10 or more
Are flowers planted in clumps?: 
Yes.
How much mulch is on the ground?: 
Some.
Is there fresh, clean water always available with a perch that bees could stand on and drink?: 
Yes
Does the garden use herbicides?: 
No.
Are pesticides used in the garden?: 
No