1. Pollination is an essential part of the fertilisation process  

The movement of pollen from  one flower to another flower  of the same species is an essential step in the fertilisation of plants and the development  of the fruit and seeds  needed for reproduction.

2. 75% of flowering plants depend on pollinators for fertilisation  

An overwhelming proportion  of at least 75% of flowering plants depend on pollinators  for fertilisation. It’s a good reason to encourage the birds and the bees into your garden  to help it flourish.

3. Bees pollinate but so do other animals and insects  

Birds, bees, bats,  butterflies, moths, flies, beetles, wasps and small mammals are all common pollinators.  Other animals, as well as the wind, can carry pollen from flower  to flower as well.

4. Pollination leads to the creation of everyday essentials like coffee and tequila  

About a thousand plants we  rely on worldwide for the production of goods require pollinators. These include those grown for food, beverages, spices and medicines. Think coffee,  chocolate and tequila!

5. Protect pollinators by planting native flowering plants  

You can protect pollinators by planting native flowering plants, reducing your use of pesticides and telling others of the danger these animals and insects are in through chemical misuse, loss  of habitat and diseases.

Republished with permission of Handyman Australia.