We often hear about diurnal (daytime) pollinators because of the vital role they play in our gardens. However, when the sun sets, nocturnal pollinators—moths, bats, beetles, and more—take over. Some plants have evolved specifically for these nighttime visitors, opening their blooms and releasing fragrance only after dusk.
In this series, we’ll explore the troubles they face, how to attract these helpers, and how doing so can strengthen your garden’s health both day and night.
In Part 1 of this series, we’ll provide a foundational overview: who night pollinators are, why they matter, and the basic conditions they need. Who Are Nocturnal Pollinators? Nocturnal pollinators are species that primarily visit and pollinate flowers after dusk, although it’s not uncommon to see some during the day. These include moths, bats, beetles, and certain flies that rely on night-blooming or night-scented plants. Many of them have evolved specialized ways to find flowers in low light, such as a strong sense of smell, echolocation, or heat detection, making them essential yet often overlooked contributors to healthy ecosystems....