In recent times, there has been a growing focus on pollinators, which play a vital role in our ecosystem. Their role in pollinating plants is crucial for the reproduction of numerous plant species, and without them, many of the foods we enjoy would not exist. In fact, it is astonishing to realize that one out of every three bites of food we take is made possible by these remarkable pollinators.
In this blog post, we will delve deeper into understanding the significance of pollinators, why they are so essential, and the measures we take to ensure that our lawn care services prioritize their safety.
What is a pollinator?
Pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, birds, bats, and beetles, are fascinating creatures that play a crucial role in the reproduction of plants. They are attracted to flowers by their enticing nectar and pollen, and as they visit each flower, they unknowingly carry pollen on their bodies, transferring it to other flowers during subsequent visits. This beautiful process of pollination helps fertilize the flowers and ultimately leads to the production of seeds.
A closeup of a prolific pollinator, the honeybee.
Why Are Pollinators Important?
Pollinators are vital for the health of our ecosystem as they play a crucial role in pollinating the plants that provide us with food, such as fruits, vegetables, and nuts. Additionally, they contribute to the pollination of wildflowers, which supports the food and habitat needs of various wildlife species. Without bees, our food supply would be greatly affected.
Unfortunately, there has been a concerning decline in pollinator populations worldwide. Factors such as habitat loss, climate change, and the misuse of pesticides contribute to this decline. While we may not have direct control over habitat loss and climate change, we can make an immediate impact by addressing how pesticides are used and applied.
90% of apple crops are pollinated by bees.
Our Approach to Lawn Care and Pollinators
In the commercial lawn care industry, strict regulations and licensing requirements are in place to ensure the safe application of pesticides. Lawn care providers and technicians are required to be licensed by the state they operate in, and they are subject to random inspections to ensure compliance with guidelines. These measures promote environmental safety and responsibility.
Homeowners who perform their own lawn care do not face the same level of scrutiny. Below are some of the steps we take to protect pollinators, and if you perform your own lawn care, we recommend you follow these steps:
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Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a holistic and eco-friendly approach embraced by Mainely Grass. By adopting IPM strategies, we can effectively manage pests while safeguarding the environment, and in the simplest terms, it means using fewer pesticides.
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We avoid spraying flowers, including clover in bloom, as it exposes pollinators to pesticides which can lead to their injury or death. It's important to steer clear of flowers near porches, patios, or mulch beds, and in the case of clover, mow the clover low enough so the flowers are removed prior to treatment.
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When it comes to protecting pollinators, it is crucial to choose products with low toxicity. At Mainely Grass, we prioritize the use of Acelepryn for our Grub Prevention. Not only is Acelepryn highly effective, but it is also the only bee-safe grub preventative on the market. In contrast, some lawn care providers still rely on products containing neonicotinoids, which are toxic to bees and have been banned in Massachusetts and the European Union.
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Adhering to the recommended product rates is crucial in lawn care. The product label serves as the law to follow, and we strictly adhere to the prescribed rates. Treating at excessively high rates not only demonstrates irresponsibility but can also pose dangers.
Conclusion
If you've ever experienced the discomfort of a bee sting, it's understandable if you don't hold them in high regard. However, we hope this blog post has shed light on their significance and the necessity of protecting them. By following the steps we've outlined, we can ensure the continued thriving of pollinators and the preservation of the countless benefits they offer.
Are you interested in relieving yourself of this responsibility in your lawn care and entrusting it to a professional? Do you want to safely treat ticks and mosquitoes while protecting the honeybees in your garden? If so, we'd love to hear from you! Let's connect to discuss your goals and needs in further detail!
