Fall garden clean up used to mean pruning, raking and generally making everything clean and tidy for winter. The “rules” around cleanup were supposed to ensure control of pests, diseases and weeds. More recently, we are being told this is a big mistake and we shouldn’t remove leaves, spent perennials and branches in fall because it will be bad for bees, butterflies and other beneficials. What is the real answer?
This presentation will provide you with an understanding of the beneficials in your garden and how they use the space over the calendar year, especially during the winter months. You will learn what garden cleanup can look like in fall and spring so it supports beneficial insects and a healthy soil, while still controlling diseases and weeds. Our focus will be on practical advice for our gardens here in the Pacific Northwest.
Bio:
Elizabeth Elle is a professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Simon Fraser University. Elizabeth and her students have been studying pollinators and pollination in farms, natural areas, habitat restorations and gardens of BC for almost 25 years. Her current focus is translating the science of pollinator conservation to support the public and land managers in pollinator-friendly gardening and restoration practices.
