Spring rain changes the pollinator garden almost overnight. After a few steady showers, the soil softens, and plants seem to grow faster with each passing day. Prairie grasses begin to stretch upward while young wildflower leaves spread across the garden beds.
Water plays an important role in prairie ecosystems. Many native plants are adapted to periods of rain followed by dry weather, storing energy deep in their root systems until conditions improve again.
Watching the garden respond to spring rain always reminds me how resilient prairie plants are. Within a few days, new growth appears everywhere. The garden begins shifting from winter stillness into the early energy of spring.
Here in Lincoln, we’re still in a drought. Our state has been ravaged by grass fires. I cannot put into words the devastation. Many gardens like mine are dry right now, and even though native plants can withstand dry times, I’m supplementing by watering so our native pollinators can get enough food this spring.