Pollinators Native insect pollinators are important pollinators of our natural ecosystems while managed honeybees are important for food production. A pollinator is any creature that moves pollen from the male part of flowers (stamen) to the female part of flowers (stigma). This pollination must occur for flowers to be fertilized. Fertilized flowers can then produce fruits, seeds and finally new plants. Insects are the most important pollinator.

The Importance of Pollinators More than 3/4 of the world’s flowering plants, including food crops such as fruits and vegetables, depend on pollinating insects to fertilize flowers. Pollinators provide one out of every three bites of food we eat including fruits, vegetables and seeds. Native pollinators support a healthy ecosystem by fertilizing native plants.

Pollinators in Peril Pollinating insects have been in decline for years. Multiple problems affect pollinator populations such as habitat loss, novel diseases, insecticide overuse, pollution and other factors. Healthy, abundant pollinator populations play a vital role in our food systems and in promoting biodiversity.

Mills River Pollinator Garden Pollinator gardens are planted with flowering plants that benefit pollinating insects. These plants provide food and habitat for pollinators. To ensure health of pollinators, these areas are not treated with pesticides. It is desirable to use a majority native plants.

As part of a renovation of Mills River Park, the staff of the Town of Mills River approached Steve Pettis, Henderson County Horticulture Agent about adding a pollinator garden to the park. The town agreed to fund the garden and Henderson County Extension Master Gardener Volunteers agreed to design, build and maintain the demonstration pollinator garden for the purposes of public education to be installed at Mills River Park in the Town of Mills River. The garden was installed by 8 Master Gardeners and 2 Mills River Park staff to install soil, mulch and plants.

The garden features over 206 perennials, trees, shrubs, vines, and grasses from 72 species. 85% of the plants are native to North Carolina. A cedar split rail fence, a swing, an arbor and pea gravel walkways with stone borders were installed by the park. Plants were obtained from Raymond's Garden Center. The Raymond's Garden Center staff helped pick out appropriate pollinator friendly plants. Educational signage is being designed to teach the public about beneficial insects and pollinators.

Summer 2024

Post Hurricane Helene Update Summer 2025

The Mills River Park Pollinator Garden was designed and built by the Henderson County Extension Master Gardener Volunteers and Town of Mills River staff. Purchased with funding provided by the Town of Mills River, the pollinator garden was installed in 2023. In 2024 the garden was flooded and many plants were destroyed. Thanks to these wonderful EMGVs and the park staff the garden is once again growing and providing great habitat for pollinators!!!