The problem – why do we need this research?
Since 2011, the RHS has published RHS Plants for Pollinators lists to help gardeners select the best pollinator-friendly flowers. This has been one of the leading lists of its type, greatly improving pollinator plantings in gardens and community green spaces across the UK.
However, a review of the lists in 2022 identified that a system was needed to help gather data to strengthen the evidence base for a small number of plants on the lists, and also to provide data for plants which we may wish to add to the list.
What are we doing?
The RHS Plants for Pollinator Counts project will collect data using the standardised pollinator monitoring method called Flower Insect Timed (FIT) Counts, a repeatable 10-minute survey developed by the UK Pollinator Monitoring Scheme. This provides data on the number and type of pollinating insect (to pollinator group) visiting a flower of interest.
These surveys will be carried out at the five RHS Gardens by existing volunteers at each site. Project participants will attend a one-day training session where they will learn how to identify the different pollinator groups and undertake surveys (app-based). They are then emailed a ‘target flower’* to survey each week during their volunteering day at an RHS Garden. Survey records added to the ‘RHS Plants for Pollinator Counts project’ before submission are shared with the RHS project lead by the FIT Count data holders.
* decided by the RHS Plants for Pollinator review group
What difference will this research make?
To inform and improve the evidence base for the RHS Plants for Pollinators lists, giving gardeners more confidence in choosing pollinator-friendly plants, and benefitting bees and other pollinating insects by providing them with nectar- and pollen-rich flowers in our gardens.
Get involved
This project is being gradually rolled out across the five RHS Gardens in 2024 and will be open only to RHS volunteers at those sites. For more information contact [email protected]
However, anyone can help record pollinating insects on flowers in their gardens. Visit this page to download and start using the FIT Count app (please note, by clicking on this link you will be redirected away from the RHS website and will be governed by the UK Pollinator Monitoring Scheme site’s terms and conditions and privacy policy).
Further information
RHS Plants for Pollinators
FIT Count survey method
Our current advice
Bees in your garden
How to help declining bees and other pollinators
A selection of plants for bees
A selection of plants for butterflies
