How to Participate!

In order to participate in I-Pollinate, follow these simple steps!

    1. Complete a training session
      This year you have the option to participate in either in-person or online training to ensure you are well-versed in data collection and insect differentiation
    • Online training
      • Instructions
        -Enroll in the online training here.
        -If you do not have an account with Learn @ Illinois Extension, please use the “create account” button to set up your account.
        – Once you complete your account creation, you will be taken to the enrollment page. To enroll in the training, click the “enroll me”.
        – To return to the course, use https://learn.extension.illinois.edu to login to the site and the course will be in your dashboard.
      • You’ll receive a certificate of completion when you’re finished, and you may be eligible for funds to purchase your plants!

2. Register your garden

    • Upon completing the training module, you’ll be asked to register your garden.
    • Register here
    • Once we receive your registration, you’ll officially be an I-Pollinator!

3. Receive your garden assignment

    • We’re assigning different garden types – “best-selling” plants vs. “pollinator-friendly” plants – to participants to better ​compare different motivations for purchasing flowers and to compare if making the switch to ornamentals recommended for pollinators actually makes a difference
    • You’ll receive an email with your garden assignment soon after registering as well as a welcome packet in the mail, which will also include your garden assignment
    • Emails are sent periodically and welcome packets will be mailed in early June

4. Purchase plants and establish your research garden

    • Purchase your plants wherever is convenient for you! Just make sure the flowers are the color we’ve specified.
    • Check out the Plant Your Garden section of the website for more

5. Start collecting data!

    • Beginning in June, collect data on pollinator visitation to your plants, look for  milkweed usage by monarchs, and take photos of bumble bees for BeeSpotter 
    • Use the Record and Report Data page on the website for more details