Since the 1930s, 97% of wildflower meadows have been lost due to agriculture, urbanisation, and excessive use of sprays and fertilisers.
This loss threatens the survival of pollinating insects, which are crucial to our food supply. One in three bites of food we eat is pollinated by insects, enabling fruits and seeds to develop.
Plants rely on insects for pollination, providing nectar to attract them. When insects visit flowers, pollen sticks to their bodies, facilitating fertilisation and fruit production. Without pollination, we lose essential foods like strawberries, apples, and coffee.
The decline of wildflower meadows has reduced insect populations, with a 60% decrease in the last 20 years. Research shows a 22% drop in apple crops due to a lack of pollinators.
With over 23 million gardens in the UK, we can help reverse this decline by creating space for wildflowers. The Plantlife Charity recommends creating multi-height lawns: short (cut every 4-6 weeks), mid-length (mow 2-3 times a year), and long (leave uncut all year). These areas provide food and shelter for insects.
The timely Bee Part of It project run by John O’Conner and North Herts Council launched in March, aiming to create a Bee Corridor across Royston. Residents, businesses, schools and community groups can help by growing bee friendly plants in their gardens or in pots.
By adopting these practices, you can support pollinators and help protect our future food supply. Every effort counts.
With credit to Kate Southworth
