Oregon Monarch and Pollinator Habitat Kits

Qualifying Projects
Eligible project types may include, but are not limited to:

• Urban and rural farms, ranches, and other working lands
• Conservation and restoration sites
• Tribal lands
• School and campus grounds
• City parks and other publicly owned properties
• Community gardens and urban lots
• Residential properties (Only eligible for the Portland area kit program (small garden kits). Please refer to the location and kit information below for details.)

Locations
Oregon Habitat Kits are currently available in the following regions:

• Portland metropolitan area
• Willamette Valley
• Klamath–Siskiyou (Southwestern Oregon)

Note: the Willamette Valley and Portland metro area programs overlap geographically but operate as separate offerings, with different kit types and plant distribution locations.
Use the map below to confirm which program applies to your project location and project type. 

If you have questions about whether your project is a good fit, please contact us at oregonhabitatkits@xerces.org. If your region is not listed, kits are not currently available for your area. You may use this interest form to be notified of future program expansion.

Timeline
This is an overview of the entire habitat kit process from project proposal to final report. For more information about each step, please read the sections below. 
 

Proposals for the 2026 habitat kit season will be open from February 23rd through April 10th.
We have a standardized ranking process that assesses site readiness and maintenance, community need, and educational opportunities. Be prepared to answer the following questions/provide descriptions of the project aspects in the proposal form outlined below. Strong proposals will include detailed responses for each question. If you are requesting kits for different project sites, submit a separate form for each unique geographic location.

Proposal Form Outline:

• Introduction and Resources
• Participant Information
  • Contact
  • Affiliation
  • Tell us about you - how does access to this kit fit into and support your community's ongoing work?
  • Describe any federal financial or technical assistance
• Project Site Details
  • Project Name
  • Location
• Kit Type and Description
  • Review the plant list with general requirements to determine if you are a match
  • Let us know if you have been awarded a habitat kit in the past
  • Request a specific kit type and the number of kits (review the available kits in the following section) based on available space and region 
  • Confirm ability to pick up kits
• Specific Habitat Project Plan
  • Description of habitat kit planting plan
  • Description of planting location
  • Space available for planting in square feet (area = length X width)
  • Current conditions/existing vegetation
  • Site preparation and watering plan
  • Plant care and protection after planting
  • Long-term maintenance and support
• Protection from Pesticides
  • Pesticide use practices within and near the site (including organic methods)
• Outreach, Education, Community Science
  • Who will benefit from the plants? Will you integrate planted habitat into outreach and education opportunities? - this is highly favorable
  • How does access to this kit fit into and support your community's ongoing work 
  • Capacity to contribute or promote community science initiatives?
• Final Program Logistics
  • Agree to submit the Planting Notification Form and Final Report–if your project is selected
  • Agree to pick up the kit or arrange alternative arrangements–if your project is selected 
  • Acknowledgement
     

Submit a Proposal (Coming soon!)

If you are unable to complete this form via Google Forms, please reach out to oregonhabitatkits@xerces.org for assistance.

Habitat kits consist of native plants that have been identified as having high value to monarchs and other pollinators and are grown without the use of systemic pesticides that may be harmful to pollinators. You may request multiple kits if needed for your project. Kit contents are tentative and subject to change based on availability.

Hedgerow Kit

Hedgerow Kit

This kit type contains approximately 40-43 woody and herbaceous transplants with flowering shrubs and forbs, including milkweed. Each kit will cover approximately 240 linear ft x 10ft wide (about 2400 ft2) when planted on 6 ft spacing. Container sizes range from large to XL band pots. Hedgerow kits are designed for larger spaces on both working and non-working lands. These kits help establish habitat for monarchs and other pollinators in areas where larger shrub and forb plantings can be incorporated into the landscape.

Klamath-Siskiyou Region Plant List

Willamette Valley Plant List

Riparian Kit

Riparian Kit

This kit type contains approximately 40-44 native shrubs and trees that will cover about 240 linear ft / 2560 ft2 when planted at 8 ft spacing. The Klamath-Siskiyou kit also includes showy milkweed. Plants in this kit do well in riparian areas and can tolerate some seasonal flooding. Riparian kits are designed for larger, non-residential spaces on both working and non-working lands. These kits help establish habitat for monarchs and other pollinators in areas near streams and waterways, or other seasoanlly flooded sites.

Klamath-Siskiyou Region Plant List

Willamette Valley Plant List

Wildflower Grassland Kit 

Wildflower Grassland Kit

This kit type contains approximately 100-110 flowering forbs and bunch grasses. Each kit will cover approximately 400 ft2 if planted on 2 ft spacing. Container sizes range from plugs (grasses) to 3.5-inch band pots. Wildflower grassland kits are suitable for small to medium-sized non-residential spaces on working and non-working lands. These kits make it possible to create grassland and meadow habitat in places where space may be limited.

Coming Soon! Klamath-Siskiyou Region Plant List

Coming Soon! Willamette Valley Plant List

Garden Kit

Garden Kit

This kit type contains 30 flowering forbs, including milkweed, and 2 small shrubs. Each kit will cover approximately 160 ft2 when planted at 2 ft spacing for forbs and 4ft spacing for small shrubs. Plants come in 3.5-inch band pots or a similar size. Garden kits are designed for smaller spaces, such as home gardens, schoolyards, community gardens, and neighborhood green spaces. These kits make it possible to create pollinator habitat in places where space may be limited.

Portland Area

To see mature kits, click on the “previous projects” button. 

Note: Plant species may be subject to change based on annual production and inventory. We do our best to work with our nursery partners to design habitat kits in advance and do not anticipate significant changes to kits. However, there are instances where nurseries may experience unexpected production issues for a particular species in a given year. Xerces staff frequently check in with our nursery partners to track plant orders, and we will notify project partners of any species substitutions or other changes to the kits before kit distribution, with as much advanced notice as possible.

Kits will be available for pick-up in late September through mid-October, depending on the region. More details regarding habitat kit distribution and locations will become available if/when your proposal is awarded a kit(s).

Distribution Locations

• Klamath-Siskiyou kits: Talent Maker City
• Willamette Valley kits: Corvallis NRCS Plant Materials Center
• Portland-area kit (Garden Kits only): TBD location in the Portland-metro region
   

Southern Oregon habitat kit distribution event at Talent Maker City in Talent, OR. Photo: Michele Blackburn / Xerces Society.

Transportation Tips

• Wildflower/Grassland Kit: Plants take about 6 sq ft (roughly 24 in x 36 in)
• Hedgerow Kit: Plants take up about 3.5 sq ft (roughly 21 in x 24 in)
• Riparian Kit: Plants take up about 3.5 sq ft (roughly 21 in x 24 in)
• Portland Area Garden Kit: Plants take up about 2.5 sq ft (roughly 18 in x 20 in)
   

Example of a wildflower grassland kit in the back of a truck. Photo: Michele Blackburn / Xerces Society.

Example of a wildflower grassland kit and a hedgerow kit in the back of a car. Photo: Michele Blackburn / Xerces Society.

Note: You must submit the Project Partner Collaborative Agreement before receiving your kit(s).

Reporting is critical to the work that Xerces does, and we cannot count the results of your planting if you do not complete the required reporting. The information provided by all Habitat Kit participants helps Xerces update and improve the science-based conservation resources we offer through our website, training courses, and webinars.

Planting Notification Form
This report confirms the planting at the project site, with photos included. 
Please submit your Planting Notification Form (PNF) by December 15, 2026.

Final Report
This report provides more information on the establishment of the plants. 
Please submit your Final Report by June 30, 2027.

If awarded a kit, you will receive a project partner collaborative agreement that outlines all specific reporting requirements.

This section provides an overview of site preparation, planting, and maintenance of habitat kit plantings. For more detailed guidance, selected participants are encouraged to review the Oregon Habitat Kit Planting Guide.

Site Preparation

Good site prep is important for long-term success.

• Start early to control weeds. Mow or string-trim regularly before planting to prevent weeds from going to seed.
• Minimize soil disturbance. Avoid unnecessary tilling, which can bring buried weed seeds to the surface and worsen weed pressure.
• Consider additional weed suppression methods for herbaceous or meadow-style plantings, which are less competitive with weeds:
  • Solarization
  • Smothering
  • Sheet mulching
• Preparation will depend on your site. Some sites may require more intensive preparation depending on weed pressure and soil conditions.
• Plan for mulch. Wood chips or similar mulch help suppress weeds and retain soil moisture once planting is complete.

Planting
Plant early and carefully to help roots establish.

• Plant soon after receiving your kit. Avoid letting plants sit too long before planting.
• Prepare individual planting spots.
  • Clear a ~2-foot diameter circle of vegetation at each planting location.
• Hole size: Dig slightly deeper and wider than the plant container.
• Planting steps:
  • Gently remove the plant, keeping the root ball intact.
  • Place the plant so the base is level with the surrounding soil.
  • Firm soil gently around roots to remove air pockets.
• Do not plant too deeply. The root crown must stay at the soil level.
• Mark plants. Use flags or stakes to mark and protect young plants during weeding.
• Mulch after planting. 
  • Apply ~3 inches of wood chips in a 1.5-foot radius around each plant.
  • Keep mulch several inches away from the stem to prevent rot.
  • Cardboard or weed fabric under mulch can provide extra weed suppression.
  • Wood chips can often be sourced for free by contacting local arborists in the spring. You can also use resources to sign up for free mulch deliveries from local arborists.
     

Spacing and Layout
Spacing depends on plant type and kit configuration (see the section on Available Kits to make sure you have enough space for your planting).

• Large shrubs: Plant 8–10 feet apart.
• Small shrubs & large herbaceous plants: 3–4 feet apart.
• Linear hedgerows: Alternate large and small plants on ~6-foot centers.
• Small herbaceous plants & grasses:
  • Standard spacing: 2–3 feet apart
  • Tighter spacing (1.5–2 feet) can help fill in faster and suppress weeds
• Mix grasses and wildflowers to help reduce weed germination between plants.

Irrigation
Water is critical during establishment, then tapers off.

• Water thoroughly immediately after planting.
• First month: Keep soil evenly moist.
• First growing season: Water during dry periods, soaking deeply each time.
• Second year: Irrigation may still be needed, but can be reduced gradually.
• After 2+ years: Most plants need little supplemental water, except in very dry years.
• Drip irrigation is strongly recommended to conserve water and reduce weeds:
  • Large shrubs: two 2-GPH emitters per plant
  • Small shrubs: two 1-GPH emitters
  • Herbaceous plants: one 1-GPH emitter
• Naturally moist sites (e.g., riparian areas) may require much less irrigation.
   

Maintenance

• Weed regularly, especially during the first two years.
  • Mow or string-trim around hedgerows (avoid plant bases).
  • Hand-pull weeds close to plants as needed.
  • Use mulch or hand-weeding in herbaceous plantings.
• Watch for animal damage (rodents, deer, etc.) and install protection if needed (see images below).
   

Long-Term Care

• Gradually reduce irrigation as plants mature.
• Allow plants to fill in naturally over time.
• Reapply mulch if weeds persist.
• Leave dead stems and leaf litter in place, especially through spring. They provide nesting and overwintering habitat for bumble bees and other beneficial insects.
• Resources:
  • Oregon Habitat Kit Planting Guide
  • Organic Site Preparation for Wildflower Establishment
  • If relevant: Small Habitat Plantings In Urban Areas
     

Hedgerow planting workshop demonstrating the use of cardboard and wood chips. Photo: Xerces Society / Carly Hirschmann.

Hedgerow planting site demonstrating use of deer protection tubes. Photo: Drew Donahue.

Post planting site demonstrating the use of wildlife protection. Photo: Candace Mackey.

Pollinator Conservation Resource Center
Here you'll find region-specific collections of publications, native plant and seed suppliers, and other resources to aid in planning, establishing, restoring, and maintaining pollinator habitat—as well as materials to help you learn about the species of invertebrates and native plants you might encounter.
 

Publications Library
Xerces Society YouTube Channel
Bug Banter Podcast
Resources for Educators
Habitat Assessment Guide for Pollinators in Yards, Gardens, and Parks
Guidance to Protect Habitat from Pesticide Contamination
Persistent Herbicide Restrictions
Restricciones Persistentes de Herbicidas
Get Involved! Project Partners are encouraged to use their habitat kit plantings for education and outreach. Xerces has several Community Science Opportunities.
Partner Spotlight

Who should I contact if I have questions?
After reading through the FAQs, please contact us at oregonhabitatkits@xerces.org with any additional questions about the Oregon Habitat Kit Program.

How do I participate in the Habitat Kit Program?
Project Proposals for Oregon Monarch and Pollinator Habitat Kits will be available each year in February/March. The Project Proposal form asks for information about where the kit will be planted, size of the area, and plans for site preparation, management, and maintenance, as well as plans for pesticide risk mitigation and outreach opportunities, if applicable.

Can previous habitat kit recipients submit a proposal to participate in the program again?
Yes, former recipients are welcome to submit a proposal to participate in the habitat kit program again if they fulfilled all program requirements.

What is required of participants?
You are required to plant the kit within a reasonable amount of time after receiving the kit (~1 month), and to follow the plan outlined in your interest form. After planting the kit, you must complete a short online form to let us know the kit is planted, and share some photos. Additionally, a brief online final report is due the following summer which should include information such as the establishment success of the project. If chosen to participate, you will be sent a Project Partner Collaborative Agreement that outlines all requirements for your signature.

Which regions of Oregon are kits available for?
Habitat kits are available for the Klamath-Siskiyou region of SW Oregon. See map above. At this time we are uncertain whether we will be able to offer kits in the Willamette Valley region. Please continue to check the website for updates as they become available.

When will I be notified if my project has been selected to receive a kit(s)?
Selected project partners will be notified by email between early to mid-May.

When will the kits be available?
Habitat kits will be available for pickup in October. You will be provided with habitat kit pick up days and location if/when your Project Proposal is selected for participation.

Can I have the kit delivered to me?
Kit delivery is not available. You must pick up your kit from our kit distribution location in October.

How did you decide what plants to include in the kits?
The plant species included in these kits are all native to Oregon and have been determined based on climate adaptiveness, regional and site suitability and pollinator attractiveness. All kits include monarch host plants, milkweed and nectar plants used by adult monarchs. The SW Oregon Wildflower Kit was specifically designed to provide a wide variety of monarch nectar and host plants. These plants were chosen based on monarch nectaring observations. Visitation data provides good general guidance on which plants are preferred by monarchs.

I would like to create a pollinator garden at a school (or other public place). Which kit type should I choose?
The Hedgerow Kit is designed to create a dense border planting and includes many larger shrubs that would be inappropriate for most small pollinator gardens. The Riparian/Wet Soils Kit contains small trees and larger shrubs, and is suitable for wet/moist areas for larger project spaces. The Wildflower/Grassland Kit would be appropriate for smaller projects, for instance small spaces on working lands and pollinator gardens at schools or other public spaces.

I am receiving additional funds for my project through an NRCS Farm Bill Program and/or a grant. Can I still participate in the Program? 
Yes, you may be able to leverage other funding sources and participate in the program. However, you must check in with your NRCS or other contact to make sure you are still fulfilling your contractual obligations.

Are habitat kits organic?
Habitat kits are not certified organic, but are grown without the use of harmful pesticides.

Can I purchase a kit on my own?
The kits are not available for sale. The Xerces Society has a wealth of resources available at no cost on our website through the Pollinator Conservation Resource Center, which can help you in your efforts to create pollinator habitat.

Can I get technical assistance for creating and maintaining my kit?
Yes! We are happy to help. You may contact us at oregonhabitatkits@xerces.org with questions about your project and for advice on how to ensure that your project will be successful. You can also find a variety of information and materials on our website, particularly in the Pollinator Conservation Resource Center.
If you are interested in planting a kit on working lands, you may also want to seek assistance from your local Soil and Water Conservation District or the NRCS.

I do not live in Oregon. Am I eligible for a kit?
Unfortunately, we can only provide these kits to people who will be planting them in Oregon’s Klamath-Siskiyou region of SW Oregon. See our habitat kit program webpage for information on kit programs in other parts of the country.

How can I support the Xerces habitat kit program?
Oregon habitat kits are supported by the U.S. Forest Service and Xerces Society donors and members. 
Support the Xerces Society.

What is required of all selected kit partners?
All selected kit partners are asked to:

• Sign Agreement: Complete and return the Project Partner Collaborative Agreement (PPCA) before picking up your kit.
• Prepare Site: Get your site ready for planting by removing existing vegetation. We recommend adding mulch (wood chips or weed-free straw) to help reduce weeds.
• Pick Up Plants: Pick up your kit plants at the designated location and time, or reach out if you need to discuss other arrangements.
• Plant: Plant your kit within two weeks of pickup for best survival. Until plants are in the ground, water daily and keep them out of full sun to reduce stress.
• Submit a Planting Notification Form: After planting, complete the Planting Notification Form (PNF) and share a few photos.
• Submit a Final Report: Submit a short online report the following June, including plant survival info, photos, and any outreach activities.

 Please contact us at oregonhabitatkits@xerces.org with any additional questions about the Oregon Habitat Kit Program.

Meet our Oregon Habitat Kit Team:

Michele Blackburn
Endangered Species Conservation Biologist

Corin Pease
Pollinator Conservation Specialist
NRCS Partner Biologist
Pacific Northwest

Community-Building Opportunities

• Mighty Networks (coming soon)
• Habitat Kit Network Map (available in 2027)
• Project Partners are encouraged to use their habitat kit plantings for education and outreach. Xerces has several Community Science Opportunities.
   

Social Media
When posting about the Xerces Society Habitat Kit Program, you can help us spread the word about invertebrate and habitat conservation by including context about Xerces’ mission and our habitat kit program for any of your followers who don’t already know. Need some talking points? Click here for some key information to share about the Xerces Society Habitat Kit Program.

Please tag us in your posts so we can see your progress! Here are links to our social media pages:

• Facebook 
• Instagram (@xercessociety)
• LinkedIn
• Bluesky (@xercessociety.bsky.social‬)