Objective(s):
This workshop explores the issues related to pollinators in consumer horticulture and production agriculture. Presentations will feature an understanding of the issues surrounding pollinators, consumer perceptions, preferences and attitudes toward pollinators, as well as identification of plants attractive to pollinators.

Pollination is a critical ecosystem service provided by beneficial insects. More than 70% of plant species rely on pollinators to transport pollen. Insect-pollinated agricultural and horticultural crops contribute up to one third of food globally. However, in the past few decades, honey bees and other pollinators have disappeared at alarming rates. Habitat loss or fragmentation and use of certain insecticides have been identified as primary threats to pollination services. It is imperative for key stakeholders such as plant breeders, horticultural industry professionals, policy makers, and consumers to identify the real causes and take actions to help combat pollinator loss. Consumers and plant breeders can be influential players to facilitate the restoration of pollinator habitats. An overview of the current situation of the pollinator issues will be provided. Consumer perceptions, preferences and attitudes toward insecticide attributes, pollinator-friendly plants and insect management strategies, and how information affects their perception for pollinators will be presented. The investigation of companion planting in attracting pollinators and predatory insects to vegetable crops will be discussed.