June is Pollinator Month—a time to recognize the vital role bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects play in our ecosystems and food systems. While much attention is given to what blooms above the ground, the health of our pollinators starts below the surface, in the soil.
At the heart of pollinator-friendly gardening is one essential practice: avoiding synthetic chemicals. Choosing organic methods and materials doesn’t just benefit your plants—it creates a safer, more balanced habitat for pollinators to thrive. Here’s how:
Healthy Soil = Healthy Ecosystems
Coast of Maine organic soil is rich in life. Instead of being treated with harsh synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, it’s nurtured with compost, natural amendments, and beneficial microbes. This creates a living foundation that supports not just plant growth, but the entire web of life that relies on it—including pollinators.
When the soil is healthy and chemical-free, plants grow stronger and are more resistant to pests and diseases. That means less need for toxic sprays—keeping pollinators safe when they come to feed.
Why Chemicals Are Harmful to Pollinators
Many synthetic pesticides and herbicides, especially neonicotinoids, are directly linked to pollinator decline. These substances can:
-
Disrupt bees’ ability to navigate and forage
-
Harm their reproductive systems
-
Linger in plant tissues, nectar, and pollen long after application
Even low-level exposure over time can weaken colonies and reduce biodiversity. By choosing organic soil and avoiding chemical treatments, gardeners help break this harmful cycle.
Organic Soil Supports Pollinator-Friendly Plants
Pollinators are drawn to healthy, vibrant blooms—and those come from well-fed, naturally grown plants. Coast of Maine organic soil:
-
Provides balanced nutrients without the risk of over-fertilizing
-
Encourages microbial life that improves nutrient uptake and plant resilience
-
Promotes better root development and water retention
All of this leads to more blossoms, better fruiting, and a garden that truly feeds pollinators from season to season.
Your Garden Can Make a Big Impact
Whether you’re planting a single pot of lavender or creating a backyard pollinator haven, your choice to go organic matters. Every space free of synthetic chemicals is one more safe stop for pollinators on their daily routes.
Simple Ways to Support Pollinators:
-
Use Coast of Maine OMRI-listed organic soil and fertilizers
-
Avoid any pesticide use during bloom times and opt for more organic
and natural solutions. -
Plant native species that provide nectar and pollen
-
Leave some “wild” space or logs for natural nesting
-
Add a shallow water source for bees and butterflies
By nurturing the soil with organic practices, you're not only growing beautiful plants, you’re also building a better future for the pollinators we all depend on. Let’s commit to cultivating gardens that are safe, sustainable, and buzzing with life.
