Did you know that there are over 4,000 species of bees in North America? The honeybee, although the most celebrated, is just one of an entire network of pollinators! For example, there is a Squash bee that exclusively pollinates squash and pumpkin plants. Mason bees collect mud to line their nests. Bumble bees, despite belief in the contrary, do actually sting – and can do so multiple times if provoked unlike their honey-making relative. In other pollinator news, did you know that there are about 10 times more species of moth than there are butterflies? And I bet you didn’t know that butterflies taste with their feet! If you have the space, consider planting for pollinators! Pollinator Partnership has a helpful guide to make your yard a colorful, fragrant sanctuary. We’ll help you get started at the market with FREE native plants on a first come first served basis at our INFO booths!

This week we celebrate Pollinator Week in honor of our small but mighty pollinator pals. The ones who don’t get nearly enough credit for all the work they put in, unbeknownst to them, in keeping food on our plates and unique flowers on our kitchen tables. From bee ceramics to honey cornbread cookies, a honeybee tea party to a pollinator parade – there is truly something sweet for everyone of all ages, winged or not.

Check out more of this week’s Fresh Market Picks & Vendor Line-Up in our Farmers’ Market E-Newsletter!