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Abstract
Rising temperatures, changes in precipitation, and pest and disease outbreaks have affected nearly every living species on earth. Research has found that many entomofauna populations are in decline. These declines may negatively disrupt a wide range of ecosystem services such as pollination and biological control. Researchers and federal agencies have proposed a variety of legislative measures and culture practices to prevent further population losses and provide entomofauna with the resources necessary for survival. One such proposal, planting native flowering forbs, has been found to enhance arthropod abundance and diversity. Recommendations regarding species selection and best native forb establishment practices vary. We examined two different native forb bed preparation techniques and their impact on plant growth, flower phenology, and arthropod abundance. Additionally, we evaluated fifteen native flowering forbs and their ability to grow in Georgia’s climate and attract native arthropods. This research can help policy makers understand the benefits, limitations, and financial costs associated with native forb plantings in urban and peri-urban environments.