Supporting Beneficial Insects on a U-Pick Farm by Installing Native Plugs

Engelbrecht Farms is a you-pick flower farm owned and operated by Tricia and Seth Engelbrecht. The farm began in stages, starting with their first home, where the pair began growing perennials as a hobby. In 2017, the pair expanded to a rented lot from the city of Waverly, Iowa, before moving to their farm in 2021. Today, Engelbrecht Farm is a thriving location with event spaces, workshops, a farm stand and tours.

In 2024, Engelbrecht Farm partnered with Xerces Society to plant permanent native perennial habitat. These plants help the beneficial insects on the farm. The habitat also supports the vital services these insects can provide, such as pollination and natural pest control in the farm’s cash crops. Join Tricia and Sarah Nizzi of Xerces Society as they discuss the ways beneficial insects can support your urban farm.