Hope is Blooming
Winter’s Hidden Habitats
Winter may look quiet, yet beneath the snow-covered fallen leaves, pollinators are waiting for spring.
Winter may appear calm, but beneath the surface, life is thriving. Pollinators that stay in place, rest and find shelter under the blanket of winter, transforming winter gardens into nurseries. They wait for spring, under fallen leaves, beneath the soil, and in the hollows of bare trees.
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How Pollinators Survive Winter
After fall leaves fade and the last blooms turn brown, pollinators have already slowed down, built winter shelters, or begun their migration journey in order to survive winter. Depending on the species, they prepare for winter using one of three main survival strategies:
- Hibernation: Adults rest in protected spaces such as hollowed stems.
- Overwintering: Pollinators remain in place as eggs, larvae, or adults.
- Migration: Pollinators fly south to warmer regions.
The success of each strategy depends on finding a suitable habitat that remains undisturbed through winter. Whether they overwinter above or below ground, in tree bark, or migrate south, the habitat in your garden is critical for their survival.
Actions taken in winter have a significant impact on next year’s pollinators
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Bees in Winter: Hidden Habitats
Flower (Echinacea)
(Bombus)
Most bees are already present in their winter habitats long before winter arrives. They have discovered areas that offer the nectar, pollen, and shelter they need to survive.
- Social bees nest in hives or colonies.
- Solitary bees overwinter above ground inside hollow stems or underground in loose soils or tunnels.
Winter habitats may look like “yard debris,” but they serve as protected nurseries.
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Butterflies in Winter: Every Stage Matters
(Polygoinia)
(Papilio)
Butterflies survive winter in various life stages, depending on the species.
- Adults shelter under loose bark or in tree cavities. (Mourning Cloaks)
- Chrysalises attach to dried stems, fences, or may tuck themselves away in ground cover. (Swallowtails)
- Larvae (caterpillars) rest in rolled leaves or ground cover. (Skippers and Moths)
- Eggs remain attached to host plants that will hatch in spring. (Hairstreaks and Coppers)
You might not see the winter stages of life, but know they exist and are growing.
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Native Plants: Built-In Winter Habitat
The plants you leave standing in winter become life-saving structures for pollinators. Bark and woody plants protect overwintering butterflies. Hollow stems provide nesting space for bees.
Bumblebee (Bombus)
(Rudbeckia)
Excellent Winter Habitat Plants
Dried flowers make excellent habitats for pollinators. Their stalks and seed heads offer insulation and shelter from the cold. Notable plants are:
- Coneflowers: Dried stems and leaf litter act as shelter.
- Black-eyed Susan: Sturdy stems offer shelter for a variety of pollinators and a place for butterflies to attach chrysalis.
- Joe-Pye Weed: Thick stems offer cozy spaces for cavity-nesting bees.
Especially Valuable Winter Structures
Dense thickets with twiggy growth and pith centers provide excellent protection for pollinators in the winter. Examples include: Sumac, Elderberry, and Raspberry.
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Winter Help for Pollinators
Simple choices make all the difference for overwintering pollinators. Leave perennials and grasses standing. They provide shelter from the cold. As winter begins to thaw, wait for several consistent 50°F days before cutting back stems to ensure that overwintering chrysalis and adults have emereged. Keep leaf litter in place. It acts like a warm blanket. Avoid de-icers that harm soil life.
A Season of Quiet Impact
Winter, the season of restoration, offers protection and an environment for new life to flourish. By leaving some undisturbed soil, a few standing hollow stems, and dried seeds, we create a safe haven for pollinators to overwinter until spring arrives.
In the stillness of winter, your garden is already preparing to bloom again.
Useful Links
Learn More About Pollinators
inaturalist Share photos. Collaborate with Pollinator enthusiasts.
Pollinator Partnership Discover more about pollinators. Find current events and projects.
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How To Winterize Your Garden Learn more about winter gardens by U.S. Department of Fish and Wildlife.
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Pollinators By Season
Spring Pollinators: The First Buzz of Spring
Summer Pollinators: The Full Cycle in Action
Fall Pollinators: Leaves and Stems