Bee-friendly blooms and spring wisdom take root at DAR garden talk

GREENWOOD, S.C. — As spring unfolds across the South and a haze of pollen lingers in the air, settling on cars and porches, one local gardening expert sees more than just yellow dust — she sees gold.

Karla Coffey, horticulturalist for the City of Greenwood and a previous guest on ETV’s “Making It Grow,” served as the featured speaker for the Issaqueena Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution’s meeting in early April.

“Spring allergies have us all sneezing, but Karla is the breath of fresh air that we all need,” said Stephanie Bowen, Regent of the Issaqueena Chapter, NSDAR. “Her energy and knowledge on plants and pollinators are exactly what we need this time of year.”

With a lifelong passion for gardening and a degree in environmental science from Lander University, Coffey shared practical, approachable tips for creating pollinator-friendly spaces.

Coffey’s talk was a lively reminder that all this pollen in the air plays a big role in keeping our planet green and our tables full. She explained the important role pollinators play in nature — how bees, butterflies, and birds help flowers bloom, keep trees healthy, and make vegetable gardens thrive.

“The words I want you to remember are food, shelter, and water — just like Maslow’s hierarchy of needs,” Coffey said with a smile. “Pollinators need those basics to survive. You can help just by planting things like native flowers, flowering trees, or even herbs like basil and thyme. They’re beautiful, useful, and pollinators love them.”

Coffey also explained how certain crops, like tomatoes, rely specifically on native bees, such as bumblebees, for successful pollination — a reminder of how important native species are to the food supply.

In addition to community outreach, Coffey plays a key role in preparing for the South Carolina Festival of Flowers, taking place June 5–8 throughout Greenwood. As the city’s horticulturalist, she leads the work behind the festival’s Signature Safari Topiary display, featuring more than 50 living sculptures that transform Uptown Greenwood into a whimsical garden experience.

About Issaqueena Chapter, NSDAR

The Issaqueena Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) honors its heritage through historic preservation, education, and patriotism. As direct descendants of American Patriots, members actively serve their communities. Learn more at www.issaqueena-dar.org. 

– Submitted by Deb Crenshaw-Nygro