Here are some dos and don'ts for pollinator friendly yards and gardens...
The Bring Back the Pollinators Campaign (www.xerces.org/bringbackthepollinators) recommends these 4 steps in creating pollinator friendly yards and gardens:
1) Plant Flowers
Be sure that you have some blooming flowers every season to provide a consistent food source all season long. Native plants work best (www.blue-thumb.org/plants). Flowering shrubs can be a good option for early spring.
2) Provide a Home
Nest boxes are an option. Milkweed is essential for Monarchs. A water source is also a good idea. (www.bwsr.state.mn.us/news/webnews/June%202013/plant.pdf).
3) Avoid Pesticides
Pesticides are a group of chemicals that kill pests and include herbicides and insecticides. Pesticides can harm non-target plants and animals.
4) Spread the Word
Let your friends and neighbors know the positive steps you are taking to protect pollinators.