Why We Plant for Pollinators: Healing Ecosystems and People

At Rain Lily Farms, every flower has a purpose. Every buzzing bee, fluttering butterfly, and hummingbird is part of a larger story—one of restoration, resilience, and renewal. When we plant for pollinators, we’re not just supporting biodiversity. We’re creating spaces where both ecosystems and people can heal.

What Are Pollinators—and Why Do They Matter?

Pollinators are animals that help plants reproduce by transferring pollen from one flower to another. They include:

• Bees

• Butterflies

• Hummingbirds

• Moths, beetles, and even bats

These tiny workers are responsible for pollinating over 75% of flowering plants and ⅓ of the food we eat. Without them, our gardens—and our plates—would look very different.

 Healing the Land, Healing Ourselves

At Rain Lily Farms, planting for pollinators is part of our trauma-informed approach to land stewardship. Survivors in our vocational programs learn to cultivate native wildflowers, herbs, and vegetables that attract and sustain pollinators. The process is meditative, empowering, and deeply symbolic.

Why it matters:

• Restores degraded soil and habitats

• Teaches patience and care through seasonal cycles

• Connects participants to nature and purpose

• Supports mental health through sensory-rich environments

One participant shared, “Watching the butterflies return made me feel like I was part of something bigger. Like I could bloom too.”

What We Plant—and Why

We choose plants that are native to Louisiana and thrive in our climate, ensuring they provide real nourishment to local pollinators.

Pollinator favorites at Rain Lily Farms:

Plant	Pollinator Benefit
Milkweed	Monarch butterfly host plant
Purple coneflower	Nectar for bees and butterflies
Bee balm	Attracts hummingbirds and native bees
Lavender	Sensory-friendly and pollinator-rich
Sunflowers	Food source and visual joy

We also avoid pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, creating a safe haven for pollinators and people alike.

Trauma-Informed Tip: Planting as a Healing Ritual

Planting for pollinators is more than a task—it’s a ritual of hope. Participants often choose a flower to represent their journey, planting it with intention and watching it grow over time. These small acts of care become powerful reminders of resilience.