The importance of pollinators in farming, their use and care
When we talk about farming, we usually thing about tractors, tomatoes, corn, green fields, or irrigation systems… but we rarely remember the true silent heroes of the field: pollinators. Without them, the production of fruits, produce, and seeds just would not be the same.
Pollination is the process by which pollen from one flower is transferred to another, allowing the development of fruits and seeds. Although wind and water can also do this, over 75% of the food crops in the world crops depend on pollinator animals, mostly insects such as bees, bumblebees, butterflies, wasps, beetles, and even some types of flies. Vertebrate pollinators such as hummingbirds or bats are also a part of this, especially in tropical regions.
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In agronomic terms, pollinators increase fruit yield, quality, and uniformity. For example, a pumpkin, melon, or chili pepper crop can increase its productivity by up to 30% if it has the proper presence of bees. Furthermore, cross-pollination improves plant genetics, producing larger fruits with greater nutritional content.
Beyond performance, their ecological role is vital. Pollinators maintain the balance of ecosystems by ensuring the reproduction of thousands of wild plant species. Without them, biodiversity would be reduced and, over time, the availability of food for livestock and humans would too.
However, in recent years, their population has been alarmingly reduced due to several factors: excessive use of phytosanitary products, habitat loss, extensive monoculture farming, and climate change. Each of these factors affects their ability to feed, reproduce, and navigate, putting global food security at risk.
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Currently, many farming companies acquire bee and bumblebee hives to help them pollinate their crops. These are placed within their production units, and at the same time, they host talks on the care they should take with these species.
Taking care of pollinators does not take to be a farmer or an expert; we can all help. In the fields, farmers can use good agricultural practices, such as applying agrochemicals during low-activity hours (dawn or dusk), planting flower strips or hedgerows that serve as shelter and food; and be respectful of natural nesting areas. At home or in urban gardens, planting native flowers, avoiding toxic insecticides, and placing small water troughs with clean water can make a big difference.
In summary, pollinators are the invisible yet essential foundation of our food. Every time we enjoy a tomato, a chili pepper, or a pumpkin, there is a bee or butterfly that made that food possible. Protecting them is not just a task for farmers, but a shared responsibility, because without pollinators, there just would not be a harvest.
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