Bees, butterflies, bats and other insects play a crucial role in spreading pollen, which fertilizes plants.
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Author’s note: The video above is on file from a separate story on bees that aired on April 22, 2022.
From June 20 through June 26, organizations across the country are celebrating the importance of bees, butterflies and more with National Pollinator Week.
The week, which began in 2007 when conservationists started to see a decline in the bee population, is designed to raise awareness to the importance of these creatures and to encourage people to take steps to encourage and protect the hard work that pollinators are doing in backyards near and far.
Without pollinators, we would see a decline in our crops and the colorful foods on our tables.
Bees, butterflies, bats and other insects play a crucial role in spreading pollen, which fertilizes plants.
At McDonald Garden Centers in Virginia Beach and beyond, “Pollinator Palooza” will be held throughout the week to educate local residents on the importance of pollinators and how we can help them thrive.
A news release from the center says that there will be multiple types of free workshops and informational events, as well as special deals on plants and even an immersive butterfly experience.
Here’s a complete list of what they plan to offer:
- Educational Pollinator Plant Displays and Handouts – All McDonald locations, June 20 through 26, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- The Butterfly Tent – Virginia Beach location, June 22 through 26, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. You can observe and interact with the life cycle of Monarch butterflies!
- Free Facebook Live Webinar – “Pollinator Plants and Products that are Perfect for your Garden” – McDonald Garden Center’s Facebook Page, June 23 at 11:0 a.m.
- Pollinator Container Workshop for Kids – Year-Round Locations Only, June 25 at 11:00 a.m. Cost is $15.
- Monarch caterpillars available for purchase – Virginia Beach location, June 20 through 26 while supplies last.
- Deals on pollinator plants, habitats – All locations, June 20 through 26 while supplies last.
