The goal was both simple and meaningful: to create a sustainable, low-maintenance native garden that provides food and shelter for bees, butterflies, birds and other pollinators.

The EAC began the project by choosing a small plot near the township building in North Branch Park, adjacent to a walking trail, ensuring high visibility and educational value. The site is in a sunny location and has well-drained soil. Heavy cardboard and mulch were then placed on the plot in mid-December 2024.

A series of garden planning meetings were held in late winter, resulting in “a wonderful design created by a township volunteer.” The layout included clusters of three-to-five plants of each species, with curved patterns and borders for visual interest, and educational signage.

Pollinator species native to eastern Pennsylvania were chosen, with special focus on native bees, Monarch butterflies, and hummingbirds. The EAC chose plants that bloom in staggered seasons (spring to fall) while providing both nectar and host resources.

Applications for grants to support the garden were also completed over the winter. Grants from Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve and Women’s National Farm & Garden Association were awarded to the EAC.

The EAC selected over 25 species of native plants. Some highlights, with Common Name; Scientific Name; Bloom Time; Pollinators Attracted:

Cardinal Flower - Lobelia cardinalis - Summer Bees, hummingbirds Eastern Columbine - Aquilegia canadensis - Spring Bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, moths Foxglove Beardtongue - Penstemon digitalis - Spring Bees, butterflies, hummingbirds Little Joe Pye Weed - Eutrochium dubium - Summer Bees, butterflies Purple Milkweed - Asclepias purpurascens - Summer Bees, butterflies (including Monarchs) Purple Coneflower - Echinacea purpurea - Summer Bees, butterflies Swamp Milkweed - Asclepias incarnata - Summer Bees, butterflies (including Monarchs) Wild Bergamot - Monarda fistulosa - Summer Bees, hummingbirds Garden planting began in mid-May, with additional native plants donated by volunteers. Mulch was added, and a painted water barrel was installed in May to support continuous watering by volunteers. New Britain Township personnel regularly replenish the water.

Once established, the garden will be maintained organically with seasonal weeding and mulching. Eventually, watering will only be necessary during drought periods. Dead stems will be left through the winter to provide habitat for overwintering insects.

Within the first growing season, visitors to North Branch Park will notice an increase in butterfly and bee activity. The EAC hopes the garden will inspire local homeowners to start their own native planting projects.

Are you interested in creating a pollinator garden in your own yard or neighborhood? Contact the New Britain Township EAC at eac@nbtpa.us or visit the New Britain Township EAC webpage at https://newbritaintownship. org/government/boards-commissions/environmental-advisory-council/ to find native plant resources.

Source: Here's the link: https://epaper.buckscountyherald.com/p/the-bucks-county-herald/8-28-25/r/22/43/7159/1985347