Bee and butterfly populations are in decline in Connecticut. To address this problem, to lure them in, and to increase their numbers, the Millbrook Garden Club created a pollinator garden at the Sharon Audubon Center. At this site, the garden club maintained an herb garden from 1966 to 2015. Herbs were replaced with plants providing a nearly nonstop source of pollen and nectar for pollinators from mid-May to mid-October.

What do pollinators like? Select simple flowers, double blossoms hide the pollen. Showcase seductive colors, shapes and scents. Pollinators are attracted to the purple and blue spectrum. Hummingbirds like tubular and red flowers. Have masses of color and include lungwort, hollyhock, Russian sage, and lavender. Include bee balm, hyssop, and sunflowers. Milkweed is a must for monarch butterflies.

The pollinator garden is well located to attract the attention of visitors, hikers, summer campers, volunteers, and workers. We aim to educate through labeling of the plants and encourage replication of our garden. Nearby is a butterfly tent, maintained by the Audubon Center, that is full of butterflies in the summertime. The garden area is approximately 48 feet by 62 feet and the beds are in formal arrangements and enclosed by a split-railed fence. The walkways are gravel.

The garden continues to be a joy to the wide community and a creative and meaningful endeavor for the members of the Millbrook Garden Club.

Story contributed by Lindley Y., Harriet W., Kathy M., and Jane K. This garden is created and maintained by the Millbrook Garden Club, Millbrook, New York, a member of the Garden Club of America.