Plant the Georgia Pollinator Plants of the Year

The Georgia Pollinator Plants of the Year Program recognizes four plants each year that support pollinators, perform well in a garden, and are beneficial for insects. These plants are nominated by gardeners throughout Georgia and are vetted by experts on a selection committee based on each plant’s horticultural value, ease of propagation, and ecological significance. 

These plants also represent each of the growing seasons: spring, summer, and fall. This categorization helps to provide nectar, pollen, and other resources that are beneficial for insects, such as Monarchs and Southeastern Blueberry Bees, throughout the duration of each growing season. 

In Georgia, these plants are now available to trade. Heather Alley, an employee of the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, shared seeds and cuttings of these plants with growers for free to help them get their own inventory started. This small task helped to increase the number of native plants that are available to plant in gardens, and contributed to the conservation of birds, bees, and butterflies. In addition, by purchasing these plants from Georgia Growers, you are supporting jobs in the green industry

Visit the State Botanical Garden of Georgia website to learn more about the program and to nominate your favorite pollinator plant; contact Heather Alley about seed sourcing; and learn about participating retailers who are increasing the availability of pollinator plants. You can also learn more about the Georgia Pollinator Plants of the Year Program from the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension here.