1. Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)

This is one of the most recognizable and beloved native plants in Minnesota, and pollinators go absolutely crazy for it. Purple Coneflower blooms from spring all the way into fall, giving you a long season of color and activity. It grows up to four feet tall and does well in sunny to partly shaded spots with well-drained soil. It’s a powerhouse plant that anchors any pollinator garden beautifully.

2. Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)

Bright, cheerful, and incredibly hardy, Black-Eyed Susan is a staple of Minnesota landscapes for good reason. These sunny yellow blooms with dark centers are magnets for bees and butterflies from spring through fall. They grow up to three feet tall, love full sun, and tolerate a wide range of soil conditions from dry to moist. If you want a plant that delivers maximum visual impact with minimal fuss, this is it.

3. Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa)

Wild Bergamot is one of those plants that pulls double duty – it looks stunning and it draws in an enormous variety of pollinators. The lavender-purple blooms appear from spring through fall and can reach up to five feet in height. It thrives in sunny to partly shaded spots and handles dry to moist soil well. Bees especially love this one, making it a cornerstone choice for any serious pollinator garden.

4. Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa)

Don’t let the name fool you – this plant is anything but a weed. Butterfly Weed produces stunning clusters of bright orange flowers from spring through fall and is one of the most important plants you can put in your yard for monarch butterflies. It stays compact at one to two feet tall, loves full sun, and prefers well-drained, sandy soil. It’s a striking accent plant that earns its spot every single season.

5. Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata)

Another essential for monarch butterfly supporters, Swamp Milkweed produces beautiful pink blooms from summer into fall and can grow up to five feet tall. Unlike its name suggests, it doesn’t require a swamp – it just prefers moist soil, making it a great choice for areas of your yard that tend to stay a little wetter. It works well in full sun to part shade and is a critical host plant for monarch caterpillars.

6. Anise Hyssop (Agastache foeniculum)

Anise Hyssop is a versatile and absolutely gorgeous addition to any pollinator garden. Its tall spikes of blue-purple flowers bloom through the summer and are irresistible to bumblebees, honeybees, and hummingbirds. It grows up to four feet tall and is wonderfully adaptable – it handles sun, part shade, and even full shade, along with sandy, well-drained soils. If you’re looking for a plant that works in trickier light conditions, this one is a great pick.

7. Prairie Blazing Star (Liatris pycnostachya)

Prairie Blazing Star is one of those plants that stops people in their tracks. Its tall, vivid purple flower spikes bloom from spring through fall and are a favorite of bees, butterflies, and even hummingbirds. Growing up to five feet tall, it does well in sunny to partly shaded areas with dry to moist soil. It adds serious vertical drama to a garden design while supporting a wide range of pollinators.

8. Golden Alexander (Zizia aurea)

If you’re looking for a native plant that blooms early in the season and helps pollinators when they need it most – right after a long Minnesota winter – Golden Alexander is your answer. Its bright yellow flower clusters appear from spring into summer and attract native bees and early-season butterflies. It grows up to three feet tall and thrives in sun to part shade with moist soil. It’s a beautiful, understated plant that provides real ecological value.

9. Lanceleaf Coreopsis (Coreopsis lanceolata)

Cheerful, golden, and long-blooming, Lanceleaf Coreopsis is a sun-loving plant that attracts bees and butterflies from spring through summer. It stays compact at around two feet tall and actually prefers dry soil, making it a smart choice for areas of your yard that don’t get a lot of moisture. It’s low-maintenance, tough, and adds a warm splash of color that complements almost any garden design.

10. Wild Blue Phlox (Phlox divaricata)

Rounding out the list is Wild Blue Phlox, a spring-blooming beauty that thrives in part shade to full shade – perfect for those spots under trees where other plants struggle. Its delicate lavender-blue flowers are loved by butterflies and native bees, and it stays relatively compact at up to 20 inches tall. It does well in moist, sandy, loam, or clay soils, making it one of the more adaptable shade-tolerant options available to Minnesota homeowners.

Why a Professional Landscaper Makes All the Difference

Sure, you could grab a few plants at the garden center and hope for the best – but if you want a pollinator garden that truly thrives and looks great year after year, working with a professional landscaper is the way to go. A pro knows how to look at your specific yard, understand the soil, light, and drainage, and build a planting plan that actually works for your space. That’s exactly what Dean Bjorkstrand brings to the table. As one of the most trusted landscapers in the Twin Cities, Dean has the knowledge and experience to design a pollinator garden that’s beautiful, healthy, and built to last. Ready to get started? Call Dean Bjorkstrand today at 612-861-3919 – your yard and the pollinators will be glad you did

The post Here Are The Top 10 Minnesota Plants to Attract Pollinators to Your Yard appeared first on Dean Bjorkstrand Landscaping.

Watering

Water your lawn regularly, especially during the hottest months of the year. Water deeply, but don’t overwater because it can lead to fungal growth. It’s best to water your lawn early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are more relaxed so that water doesn’t evaporate quickly. If you have sprinklers, ensure they are correctly adjusted to avoid water wastage.

Mowing

Mow your lawn regularly, but avoid cutting the grass too short. Longer grass blades hold more moisture and provide shade for the roots. Grass should be cut often enough so that no more than one-third of the grass blade is removed with each mowing. Cutting more than that can stress the grass and leave it vulnerable to disease. And remember to sharpen your mower’s blades, a dull blade results in ragged cuts, which make the grass less drought-tolerant.

Fertilizing

Fertilize your lawn with nitrogen-rich fertilizer at least twice a year in the summer months to boost root growth and overall health. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as it can burn your lawn. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and avoid fertilizing during periods of high heat.

Good soil preparation

Start with healthy, high-quality soil and prepare your soil properly before planting. Soil with adequate nutrients, organic matter, and the right pH level supports healthy root growth and maximizes the chances of a vibrant lawn. Do a soil test to determine what fertilizers or nutrients your lawn needs to be healthy.

Proper lawn management

In addition to regular watering, mowing, and fertilizing, consider some other lawn management practices, such as aerating your lawn every two to three years. Aeration allows water and air to penetrate the soil and reach the roots, which promotes vigorous growth and resistance against drought and heat. Raking your lawn also helps to remove dead grass and thatch that could prevent moisture from getting to the root zone.

Your lawn can be the most beautiful place in your home, but making it healthy and looking vibrant takes time and dedication- especially during the hot and dry summer months in Minnesota. By following the tips shared in this blog, you can maintain the lush green color of your lawn and make sure it stays healthy and beautiful throughout the summer. Enjoy the sun!

The post Tips for Keeping Your Lawn Healthy in the Hot and Dry Summer Months in Minnesota appeared first on Dean Bjorkstrand Landscaping.

Whether mowing is your favorite summer pastime or summer bummer, did you know mowing in May can negatively impact pollination? Pollination is crucial for the growth and survival of various plants and ultimately contributes to the overall health of our environment. Here is why you should consider waiting a month before trimming your lawn.

April Showers Bring May Flowers

May is the month when most flowering plants in Minnesota start to bloom. Pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds rely on these plants for nectar and pollen. Mowing the lawn this month can disrupt the pollinators’ habitat and food source. The lawn mower’s sound and vibration can also scare pollinators away, making them less likely to return to the area to pollinate. Studies show that lawns that are mowed less frequently have a higher number of pollinators and flowering plants. Therefore, it is essential to avoid mowing in May or to cut down the frequency of your mowing routine.

Adjust Your Mowing Practices

If you need to mow your lawn in May, consider changing your mowing practices. Some tips to help protect the pollination process include mowing your lawn in the evening when pollinators are less active, using a manual lawn mower or a mower that produces less noise and vibration, leaving patches of your lawn uncut, or mowing only the perimeter of your lawn, and avoiding the use of pesticides that can harm pollinators.

Beneficial for Minnesota’s Ecosystem
Pollinators are crucial to the diversity of our ecosystem, and their decline can negatively impact food production and global biodiversity. In Minnesota, 90% of the flowering plants rely on pollinators to produce seeds and fruit. The pollination process also contributes to our state’s economy and crop production. Therefore, homeowners should play their part in protecting the pollination process.

How to Support Pollinators on Your Minnesota Lawn
You can support pollinators in your lawn by planting native flowers, shrubs, and trees that attract pollinators. Some pollinator-friendly plants include goldenrod, milkweed, asters, and coneflowers. You can also provide bee-nesting habitats and encourage your neighbors to do the same. Also, avoid using chemical pesticides and fertilizers and opt for organic alternatives.

Mowing in May can harm the pollination process in Minnesota. It is essential for homeowners to be mindful of their mowing practices and to take steps to protect pollinators and the environment. By choosing to mow less frequently or by changing the time and method of your mowing routine, you can contribute to the overall health of our ecosystem. Remember, small actions can make a significant impact. By supporting pollinators in your lawn, you are helping preserve our environment’s diversity and beauty for generations.

The post Why Mowing in May Can Be Harmful to Pollination in Minnesota appeared first on Dean Bjorkstrand Landscaping.

Plant a Butterfly Garden: Butterflies are beautiful and vital pollinators, and planting a butterfly garden is an easy way to attract them to your outdoor space. Choose plants native to your area, such as milkweed, coneflower, and black-eyed Susan, to provide a source of nectar and shelter for butterflies, and watch as they flock to your garden.

Add a Water Feature: There’s nothing more relaxing than running water, and a water feature can create a peaceful and calming atmosphere in your outdoor space. Whether it’s a pond, fountain, or waterfall, a water feature can add a unique element to your landscaping that will help you unwind and enjoy your outdoor space.

Use Natural Materials: Natural materials like stone, wood, and gravel can give your landscaping a rustic and natural look that blends seamlessly with the surrounding environment. Consider using natural materials for walkways, borders, and garden beds; you’ll create an elegant and timeless look.

Create a Vertical Garden: A vertical garden is perfect if you’re short on space or want to add some greenery to a small area. You can create a vertical garden using a trellis, wall-mounted planters, or even a hanging garden, and you can plant various plants to create a beautiful and diverse display.

Install Outdoor Lighting: Outdoor lighting can add a new dimension to your landscaping, highlighting your favorite plants and features and creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere at night. To create a unique and customized look, you can use various lighting options, from string to path lights to uplights.

These are just a few creative landscaping ideas you can try this spring. There are many ways to add beauty and personality to your outdoor space, and by experimenting with different ideas and materials, you can create a unique space. Whether looking for a peaceful, relaxing atmosphere, a vibrant and colorful garden, or a functional and practical space, landscaping ideas suit every taste and style. So get creative, and start transforming your outdoor space today!

The post Creative Landscaping Ideas to Try this Spring appeared first on Dean Bjorkstrand Landscaping.

Gardening is a great activity that brings joy and relaxation. However, if you want your garden to thrive and yield healthy, juicy fruits and vegetables, you need to ensure that your garden is pollinated efficiently. Pollination is essential, especially for the growth and reproduction of most flowering plants. This spring, you can enhance the pollination process in your garden by following a few simple steps. This blog post will guide you in preparing a garden for pollination this spring.

Choose the Right Plants:
Select the right plants for your garden to increase the chances of successful pollination. Some plants require cross-pollination, while others are self-pollinating. You want to pick the plants that attract pollinators, such as bees, hummingbirds, or butterflies. Some top pollinator-friendly plants include sunflowers, lavender, zinnia, cosmos, and herbs like basil and thyme. Be sure to choose plants native to your region for optimal success.

Provide Water and Shelter:
Pollinators need water and shelter to thrive in your garden. You can set up a small pond or birdbath and add some pebbles for butterflies to rest on. You can also create a shelter by placing rocks or bricks in a sunny spot or hanging a mason bee house. These simple additions will encourage pollinators to make your garden their home.

Eliminate Pesticides:
Pesticides can harm beneficial insects and pollinators. If you choose to use any pesticide, ensure it is safe for pollinators. A better alternative is to create a natural ecosystem where beneficial insects feed on pests that harm your garden. This will ease your reliance on harsh chemicals and provide a healthy environment for pollinators.

Plant Flowers Early:
Planting flowers earlier in the season will provide abundant blooms for pollinators to feed on. This promotes a healthy population for the entire season. You can also choose the right time of day to plant flowers. Pollinators are most active in the early morning and late afternoon. Planting during these periods improves pollinators’ chances of noticing the flowers.

Encourage Diversity:
Having a diversity of plant species in your garden is essential for attracting different types of pollinators. You can also add different plant heights and colors to your garden to appeal to a more extensive range of pollinators. Different pollinators have different preferences, and creating a diverse environment provides a home for all species.

A pollinator-friendly garden is not only beneficial to the environment but also allows you to grow healthy and thriving plants. Following the steps outlined in this blog, you can easily prep your garden for pollination this spring. Create a natural ecosystem that provides the essentials pollinators need, and you will have a flourishing garden that enhances your outdoor space. Remember, our furry and winged friends play a vital role in our ecosystem, and ensuring a pollinator-friendly garden is one way to protect and care for them.

The post How to Prep a Garden for Pollination This Spring appeared first on Dean Bjorkstrand Landscaping.

 It’s February, so it’s time to start thinking about your spring landscape. However, if you live in an area that experiences heavy snowfall, you may be concerned about how the extra snow will impact your landscape when the weather finally starts warming up. Read on for a few tips on handling too much snow this winter and ensure your landscape is in tip-top shape come springtime. 

Snow Removal Strategies 

The first step to dealing with too much snow is to remove it from your yard as soon as possible. The longer the snow sits in one spot, the more likely it is to damage nearby plants or cause flooding once temperatures start rising again. Instead, use a shovel or snow blower to clear out excess snow quickly and efficiently to prevent property damage.  

Be aware of where you’re piling the snow — if you pile it around the foundation of your house or overhanging trees, it can cause problems later on down the road. Also, avoid piling enormous amounts of snow next to structures like sheds or decks, as these piles can cause additional stress on those structures over time. 

Snow Damage Prevention Tips  

Once you’ve cleared away all of the excess snow from your yard, you can still do a few other things to help protect your landscape from damage due to excessive winter precipitation. First and foremost, try adding a layer of organic mulch around any vulnerable plants — this will help insulate them from extreme cold temperatures and keep them healthy throughout winter. Additionally, make sure that any drainage systems near your home are working correctly — clogged drains can lead to flooding and waterlogged soil, damaging nearby vegetation. Finally, consider investing in a de-icing agent such as rock salt or calcium chloride. These agents will help prevent icy patches from forming on walkways and driveways during extreme cold snaps. All in all, there’s no need to panic if your area receives more than its fair share of winter precipitation this year — with a bit of foresight and planning, you’ll have your spring landscape looking perfect come April! 

Dealing with too much snow this winter doesn’t have to be stressful — by taking proactive steps such as removing excess snow quickly, adding layers of mulch around vulnerable plants, ensuring proper drainage systems are functioning correctly, and applying de-icing agents before cold snaps occur; you can help protect your spring landscape from potential damage caused by heavy winter precipitation. With these tips in mind, there’s no reason why you won’t have an idyllic spring landscape come April!

The post Too Much Snow? What You Need to Know About Your Spring Landscape  appeared first on Dean Bjorkstrand Landscaping.

Winter can be a challenging season for trees. With the cold temperatures, snow and ice storms, and other harsh weather conditions that winter brings, trees are even more susceptible to damage. Unfortunately, this often leads to expensive repairs or even the removal of the tree altogether. But there are ways to protect your trees during the winter months. Let’s explore what problems trees might experience in winter and how to prevent them. 

Cold Weather Damage 

The most common problem that trees experience during the winter is cold weather damage. Cold weather can cause various problems for trees, including defoliation, cracking of bark or branches, frost heaving (the lifting of roots due to freezing temperatures), and sunscald (damage caused by rapid changes in temperature). To prevent this type of damage, properly water your trees before the first freeze. This will help keep them hydrated throughout the cold winter months. Additionally, it would help if you covered any exposed roots with mulch or other organic materials to protect them from extreme temperatures. 

Winter Storm Damage 

Winter storms can cause severe damage to trees due to heavy snowfall and ice accumulation on branches. To prevent storm damage, you should prune any dead or diseased branches in late fall before storms arrive. This will help reduce stress on the weak points of your tree and limit potential breakage in windy or icy conditions. It would be best to wrap trunks with burlap or a tree wrap when severe winds are expected, as this will help shield your tree from wind damage. You should also avoid planting new trees during the winter, as newly planted saplings are more vulnerable to storm damage than mature specimens that have had time to establish their root systems. 

Insect Damage 

Another issue that can affect your tree’s health is insect infestations which tend to peak during late summer/early fall but may linger into late autumn/winter, depending on local climates. To prevent insect damage, you should inspect your tree regularly for signs of infestations, such as holes in leaves or sawdust at its base; if you spot any signs, then contact an arborist immediately so they can treat the problem before it gets out of hand. Additionally, you should fertilize your soil at least once every year, as this will help ensure that your tree receives all the nutrients it needs throughout its life cycle! 

While many problems can arise with wintertime care for trees – from cold weather damage and storm damage to insect infestation – there are steps that homeowners, gardeners, and tree care professionals alike can take to protect their beloved plants from harm this season! With proper preparation like watering before freezing temperatures arrive, pruning weak branches before storms hit, wrapping trunks with burlap in windy conditions, inspecting for pests regularly (and contacting a professional if necessary!), and ensuring proper nutrition through annual fertilization – these simple steps may make all the difference when it comes time for springtime blooms! So don’t forget – protect those precious plants now so they can thrive later!

The post Protecting Your Trees During the Winter Months  appeared first on Dean Bjorkstrand Landscaping.

Winter can be a challenging time for landscapes. Everything is covered in snow, making it hard to make your yard stand out. You don’t have to stop decorating once the holidays are over–we will give you some tips on how to make your landscape look great the rest of this winter!

Incorporate Winter Plants

First, invest in some beautiful winter plants. Winter is an excellent time for evergreens and other seasonal plants. Instead of letting your landscape be covered in snow, why not fill it with colorful foliage that will look beautiful no matter what the weather is like?

Keep Your Lighting Up

Another great tip to keep your landscape looking beautiful this winter is to add some lighting. Winter evenings can be dark and dreary, especially if you live far north. Adding some lights to your yard can help it look bright and vibrant no matter what the weather is. There are a variety of different types of lights that you can use for this purpose, so be sure to explore all of your options!

Spruce Up With Winter Décor

Another great way to make your landscape look beautiful this winter is to add some exciting winter décor. There is a lot of fun, unique accessories that you can use in your yard during the colder months. If you aren’t sure where to start, try browsing some home and garden stores or just looking online for inspiration. You can make your yard look like something out of a magazine with creativity!

As you can see, there are many ways to make your landscape stand out this winter. There are many options to consider, whether it’s adding beautiful plants or adding some fun accessories. So what are you waiting for? Start making your landscape look beautiful today!

The post Tips to Make Your Landscape Stand Out This Winter appeared first on Dean Bjorkstrand Landscaping.

Utilize Natural Elements

The first step in creating a winter wonderland in your yard is to consider the elements you want to include. For example, snow-covered trees and bushes can create a beautiful backdrop for snowmen or angels. Also, add some festive lighting, such as string lights or candles, which can help set the mood and add some extra warmth.

Consider the Yard’s Layout

Another critical consideration when designing your winter yard is the layout of your space. Ideally, you want to create a configuration that allows snow to quickly build up on your lawn and any pathways while leaving room for snowmen or snow angels. This may mean choosing areas with a gentle slope rather than flat surfaces.

Once you’ve considered these design elements, it’s time to implement your plan! Start by clearing leaves or debris from your yard and trimming overgrown plants and bushes. Then, using snow shovels or snow blowers, carefully sculpt the snow, so it is smooth and even. Finally, don’t forget to enjoy your beautiful winter yard and relish all the fun it brings!

The post Create a Winter Wonderland: Tips for Designing a Beautiful Yard This Season appeared first on Dean Bjorkstrand Landscaping.

Leaves act as natural mulch, helping retain moisture in the soil and preventing weeds from growing. They also break down over time, providing valuable nutrients to your lawn. So next fall, consider leaving some on your property for a healthier yard instead of raking up all those leaves. Here’s why you should think twice before raking and disposing of your lawn’s fallen leaves.

1. Leaves act as natural mulch, helping retain moisture in the soil and preventing weeds from growing. 
2. Fallen leaves provide valuable nutrients to your lawn as they break down over time. 
3. Raking and disposing of fallen leaves removes these benefits from your lawn. 
4. Leaving some leaves on your lawn can save you time and effort in the long run, as it reduces the need for additional fertilizers or weed control methods. 
5. It’s also better for the environment, as fewer yard waste materials will end up in landfills. So next fall, consider letting some of those leaves stay on your lawn for a healthier yard.

Letting some of your fallen leaves stay on the lawn can save time and effort and benefit the environment. It also provides valuable nutrients and helps with moisture retention and weed control. So consider skipping the rake and leaving those leaves for a healthier yard.

The post Why Fallen Leaves are Good for your Lawn appeared first on Dean Bjorkstrand Landscaping.