Pollinators like bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and even certain beetles play a vital role in our ecosystems—and in the beauty and productivity of our gardens. In Virginia, these hardworking creatures are responsible for helping plants reproduce, supporting native flora, and contributing to healthy food systems.

At Perkinson Homes, we design custom homes that feel connected to the land. That connection extends to the landscapes that surround them. By making thoughtful choices in your yard, you can create a welcoming environment for pollinators while enjoying a colorful, lively, and environmentally friendly outdoor space.

Here’s how to support Virginia’s native pollinators and turn your garden into a sanctuary for these essential species.

Why Pollinators Matter

Pollinators are responsible for fertilizing more than 75% of flowering plants and about one-third of the food crops we eat. Without them, the landscapes we love—and the ecosystems that sustain us—wouldn’t be the same.

In recent years, pollinator populations have declined due to habitat loss, pesticide use, disease, and climate change. But the good news is that homeowners can make a big difference. By creating pollinator-friendly landscapes, you’re helping preserve biodiversity and keep Virginia’s environment thriving.

Native Plants: The Cornerstone of a Pollinator-Friendly Yard

Pollinators have evolved alongside native plants, which provide the specific nectar, pollen, and shelter they need to survive. Incorporating native Virginia species into your garden is one of the most impactful ways to support these species.

Top Native Plants for Virginia Pollinators

• Bee Balm (Monarda didyma): A vibrant red or pink flower that attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
• Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea): A durable perennial that provides nectar for butterflies and seeds for birds.
• Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa): A type of milkweed essential for monarch butterfly caterpillars.
• Joe Pye Weed (Eutrochium purpureum): A tall native with clusters of purple flowers that draw in butterflies.
• Virginia Bluebells (Mertensia virginica): An early spring bloomer that offers an important nectar source after winter.
• Goldenrod (Solidago species): A late-season bloomer that helps sustain pollinators into fall.

Planting a variety of native flowers that bloom at different times ensures that pollinators have a steady food source throughout the growing season.

Beyond Flowers: Shrubs, Trees, and Grasses

Don’t forget that pollinators also rely on native trees and shrubs for shelter and food.

• Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis): One of the earliest blooming trees, supporting bees and other early pollinators.
• Serviceberry (Amelanchier species): Offers nectar-rich blossoms and fruit that feed birds and pollinators alike.
• Oak trees: While not often considered pollinator plants, oaks support hundreds of caterpillar species, which in turn support birds.

Native grasses like Little Bluestem and Switchgrass provide important cover and overwintering habitats for insects and other wildlife.

Minimize Pesticides and Choose Natural Alternatives

Chemical pesticides can be harmful to pollinators, even in small amounts. Avoid spraying flowering plants, and opt for organic or natural pest control methods instead. Integrated pest management (IPM) approaches—like introducing beneficial insects or using companion planting—can help keep your garden healthy without putting pollinators at risk.

Provide Water and Shelter

Pollinators need more than just flowers. They also need safe places to rest, nest, and drink water.

• Water: A shallow dish with clean water and stones for perching can provide a perfect hydration spot for bees and butterflies.
• Shelter: Leave small areas of bare soil for ground-nesting bees and consider leaving a brush pile or log for shelter.
• Pollinator houses: You can install bee houses or butterfly shelters, especially if your landscaping is more formal or low-maintenance.

Reduce Lawn, Increase Habitat

While a manicured lawn may look neat, it offers very little in the way of food or shelter for pollinators. Consider reducing the size of your lawn and replacing parts of it with native plants, wildflowers, or meadow-inspired beds. Even a small pollinator patch can make a big difference.

Educate and Inspire

One of the most rewarding aspects of supporting pollinators is seeing the difference it makes—and sharing that with others. A garden buzzing with life can become a space for learning and connection for your family, friends, and neighbors. Adding plant markers, garden art, or signage about native plants can help inspire others to make pollinator-friendly choices, too.

Creating a Landscape That Gives Back

Supporting pollinators isn’t just good for the environment—it’s also a beautiful way to bring life, color, and motion to your yard. Whether you’re planting a small butterfly garden or designing a full native landscape around your custom home, your efforts will help sustain Virginia’s ecosystems for generations to come.

At Perkinson Homes, we believe that every element of your home, including your outdoor space, should reflect your values and enrich your life. If you’re looking to build a custom home that feels connected to nature, our team is here to help you design with intention—from the front porch to the pollinator garden.