Pollinators

Why pollinators matter

The work pollinators do might seem small, but it is essential to keeping ecosystems healthy. Pollinators move pollen from one flower to another, helping plants reproduce and grow fruits, vegetables, seeds and new plants. 

Pollinators include bees, butterflies, moths, hummingbirds, flies, beetles, wasps and other animals. In Ontario, pollinators play an important role in supporting biodiversity, plant reproduction, and food security.

Pollinators help by:

• sustaining our food systems and natural areas
• supporting biodiversity by helping native plants grow and reproduce
• providing food and shelter for birds, insects and other wildlife
• helping maintain healthy, resilient ecosystems

What you can do at home

You don't need a green thumb or a large garden to make a difference. A few simple choices can turn any outdoor space into a haven for pollinators.

• plant native species suited to Orangeville and the Credit Valley watershed, such as asters, wild bergamot, violets, meadow-rue, milkweed, black-eyed Susans and coneflowers
• plant flowers in groups or clusters so pollinators can find them more easily
• choose plants that bloom from spring through fall, such as goldenrods, sunflowers, coneflowers and black-eyed Susans
• avoid pesticides, especially insecticides
• leave some bare soil, leaf litter, seed heads and hollow stems to provide nesting and overwintering habitat
• delay spring garden clean-up where possible to avoid disturbing overwintering pollinators

A mix of native plants that flower across the seasons gives pollinators a reliable source of food from early spring right through to autumn. Pollinators also need places to nest, rest and overwinter, so a pollinator-friendly garden does not need to be perfectly tidy to be healthy.

Small spaces count

A balcony planter, a container garden or a small garden bed can all provide valuable habitat and food sources for pollinators.

Pollinator-friendly spaces can be colourful, intentional and beautiful. Supporting local wildlife and having a tidy, welcoming garden aren't mutually exclusive—in fact, many of the best pollinator plants are also some of the most striking.

Orangeville's pollinator garden

In May 2026, the Town planted its first native pollinator garden near the community gardens near 30 Centre Street. ). The garden is part of the Town’s Pollinator Protection Plan and will help support local pollinators, demonstrate pollinator-friendly gardening practices and grow community awareness of how residents can support local species.

When pollinators thrive, so do our green spaces, gardens and food systems,  making Orangeville a healthier, more vibrant community for everyone.