How Does Pollen Travel From Flower to Flower?

Photo credit: Lillian Simons - Seaside goldenrod (bloom late Sept - Oct)

Luscious gardens, endless amounts of butterflies and the sweet smell of flowers amidst the warm sun. Gardens provide a sanctuary for us that highlight some of nature’s most fascinating creatures and plants. How is it possible for our gardens to bloom with such life?

Pollination is the process of transferring pollen grains from one flower to the other. Plant seeds are produced when pollen is transferred between flowers of the same species. Bees feed on a flower’s nectar while the pollen unintentionally attaches itself to the insect's body. Other pollinators include butterflies, hummingbirds, bats and moths. Pollination takes year-round efforts with peak season during the summer months.

These creatures are key to successful pollination, and it is necessary that we protect and help them. Research suggests that 35% of the world’s food crops are dependent on pollination. One way to help pollinators is to plant native flowering plants, another way is to reduce the use of pesticides in your garden as this can have a negative impact on pollinator populations.

Come and explore our pollinator garden at the Jones Beach Energy and Nature Center where you will find native pollinators such as bees and butterflies, happily pollinating our garden.