Lake County Conservation District offers free pollinator seeds

Spring has sprung, and the Lake County Conservation District (LCCD) is buzzing with excitement as it launches its annual Pollinator Seed Giveaway, encouraging local residents to join a growing movement to protect pollinators and restore native habitat.

As part of its Pollinator Initiative, LCCD is offering free native seed mixes to residents interested in planting their own pollinator-friendly plots. This year’s mix has been specially curated with exclusively native species, selected to bloom throughout the growing season to provide critical food and shelter for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.

Pollinators play a vital role in maintaining biodiversity and supporting healthy food systems. Whether you have a backyard, a few containers on a patio, or open acreage, there’s a way to participate. Creating small plots with native plants is something every landowner can do to help.

In addition to seed, LCCD has resources to support pollinator plot success including:

• Detailed information on the individual native species in this year’s mix

• How to choose the right site and prepare your plot

• Simple planting techniques for all sizes of plots

• Long-term maintenance tips to keep pollinator habitat thriving

• A list of native shrubs and grasses that can be added to your landscape to extend the season

There are many benefits to increasing the number and diversity of native plants into the landscape. Because they evolved together in the same environment, native plants provide the highest quality food and shelter for local pollinators. Once established, native plants are hardier, disease resistant, and more drought tolerant than introduced species. These features make natives kinder to the environment and your wallet.

Seed can be requested through the Lake County Conservation District’s website at lakecountyconservationdistrict.org/pollinator-initiative. Supplies are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

So whether you're a seasoned gardener, a rancher, or a curious beginner, LCCD invites you to get your hands dirty and help Lake County bloom for pollinators this year. Planting native means planting for the future. With a little care, your patch of land can become a lifeline for pollinators – and a beautiful spot to enjoy all season long.