ScottsMiracle-Gro makes a Pollinator Promise

In a move to aid shrinking bee populations, The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company is launching an initiative to promote pollinator-friendly habits across the U.S.

The "Pollinator Promise" is a year-long effort to educate consumers about pollinators and promote the creation of habitats for them to thrive.

“The importance of pollinators is unquestionable and it is easier than most people think to create a habitat where they can thrive,” said Jim King, senior VP of corporate affairs at ScottsMiracle-Gro. “The Pollinator Promise is a year-long effort to help home gardeners and urban planners understand the critical role these creatures play in our ecosystem and to provide them the tools necessary to grow successful pollinator gardens.”

The project will fund at least 50 pollinator gardens throughout the U.S. in 2016 and falls under the larger umbrella of the GRO1000 community gardening initiative. GRO1000 provides grants for gardens and green spaces and is now in its sixth year.

Additionally, the company will provide answers to common questions online and directly engage gardeners about the need for pollinator habitats via its relationship with Tournament of Roses.

“We are calling upon individual gardeners and communities to help reverse the downward population trend by restoring the natural habitat bees and butterflies need to survive,” said Michele Colopy, program director, of the Pollinator Stewardship Council. “We are pleased to partner with ScottsMiracle-Gro to help spearhead these efforts that are at the core of our mission.”