Seeds: Collecting and germinating for pollinator gardens

We are collecting native seeds as part of our PolinizAmigos project to create pollinator gardens with youth at schools. We want to investigate what native plants would be good to propagate and not introduce any pollinator plants that might be invasive. We have been collecting seeds in nature, along the highway, and from the pollinator garden in the NCI yard. With the help of NCI biologist, Mitre, we have been learning how to germinate seeds. ​These plants will be transplanted in pollinator gardens at local schools as part of the environmental education.

With less rainfall due to climate change, there are less flowers in the Tropical Deciduous Forest and this is changing the phenology, timing of when plants flower. If plants are flowering earlier and later then normal, the animals who eat them are thrown off of their food cycles. This is drastically affecting subsistence farmers as well who are seeing increase in their crops being eaten by animals who cannot find adequate food for themselves. It is important to be aware of these changes so that we can adapt to changing climates and assist those who are most affected.

By creating more pollinator gardens we will raise awareness of the need for pollinator habitat and successive food chains. By connecting more people to nature, awareness increases and positive action is within reach. Water insecurity, food insecurity, native plants, and pollinators are all inter-connected. ​"When seeds sprout, it is a good day."