BEE-FRIENDLY GARDENING
Both bumblebee and honeybees enjoy and require a continuous source of food. This is specially important in the early part of the year stretching into the winter months. Pollen supplies protein and fats, which is essential for the bee when the larvae are being reared. The nectar contains sugars and is the vital energy source for bees. Flowers to the bee is food, Bees do not distinguish between the garden plant or what may appear to be undesirable weeds. Honeybees can make a delicious honey from the dandelion nectar.
HOW CAN YOU HELP THE HUMBLE BEE –
If you have the room in your garden, plant a drift of the same flowers these are easier for bees to notice and locate. Bees cannot feed efficiently on double flowers, so plant single or semi-double varieties to help them. Bees prefer to work in sunlit areas so planting in the shade is not bee friendly. Bees need water so a small bird bath or pond even a shallow dish of water will help our bees. Leave part of your lawn uncut to provide extra pasture for bees. Bees thrive on wild plants, like dandelions, deadnettle and compost is also helpful for them. Public plantings, verges and open ground will encourage the wildlife in your local community.
SUPPORTING AND IMPROVING THE ECOLOGY AROUND US IS ESSENTIAL FOR PLANT AND FRUIT TREE POLLINATION.
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