Last fall, as part of the CC&M series, Beekeeper Mark Berninghausen shared his experiences and expertise about the importance of bees and their health.
In response, the Environmental Action Committee is working with the Building and Grounds Committee to create a pollinator garden in the front of the church. The old and expansive juniper in the middle of the front yard (being removed at right) will be replaced with colorful and blooming perennials. The garden will be visible from the street and provide an opportunity to share our commitment to healthy ecosystems on our own property within the Canton community.
We are calling for many hands (including kids!) to help with the work this fall and throughout the gardening cycle. Please volunteer to be on the Bee Team. Project teams are a great way to engage in church activities without requiring membership on a committee. The RE Maker Space class is already exploring ways to be involved as a follow up to the bee house activities completed a few years ago.
Here’s how you can help: Consider thinning some of your own pollinator-friendly perennials to share with church. Suggested plants for our region: Allium, Aster, Blackeyed Susan, Butterfly Bush, Cardinal Flower, Chives, Coreopsis, Dutchman’s Breeches, Echinacea, Evening Primrose, Giant Hyssop, Honeysuckle, Lavender, Monkey Flower, Phlox, Scarlet Bee Balm, Spiderwort, Sundial Lupine, Sunflowers, Virginia Bluebells.
Planting has begun! Questions or interest? Contact Sue Powers.
Resources for additional information: https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/pollinators/gardening.shtml https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/pollinators/documents/AttractingPollinatorsEasternUS_V1.pdf
http://pollinator.org/guides
