Einstein stated that we would only have four years of life left if all our bees disappeared. This makes perfect sense when you look at the vitally important role they play in pollination. It has been some time since we last saw a garden humming with bees. Everyone can help by encouraging homeowners to make sure they include plants in their garden ideas and designs that are mostly going to benefit the bee population, and in turn benefit us. Most homeowners seem to be happy when garden ideas are given to them, so that they don’t have to come up with something themselves.
This is a great opportunity to make a difference. The three main factors to consider when you want to choose plants for bees. Herbaceous perennials and large clumps of annuals should be a choice in your garden ideas and designs. They are easier to locate, and this will help bees to conserve their much-needed energy. Choose plants that provide nectar or pollen from March through to October, the period when you will find that bees are most active. Because bees find single-flowered varieties of plants and tend to ignore double flowers, you should include these in your garden ideas.
You should consider daisy-shaped flowers, which are very popular with bees, in your garden ideas and designs. Sunflowers, Asters, Echinacea, and Rudbeckia will fall into this category.
Choosing plants from the Allium family and beans, mints, and flowering herbs for your garden ideas will also be helpful. Tall plants such as Larkspur, Foxglove, and SandHollyhocks are irresistible to bees. If you have the space, you may want to consider including a beehive in your garden. Beekeeping Associations are able to put you in contact with beekeepers who are looking for sites. Having bees close to a vegetable patch can be very beneficial and result in better crops.
Adding bee-friendly elements to your garden does not have to be expensive or complicated. Even small changes can create a big impact. Try placing a shallow dish of water with pebbles so bees can safely drink. Avoid using pesticides, as these are harmful to bees. You can also leave a small patch of your garden wild, with native flowers and grasses. This gives bees a natural space to thrive. Educating children and others about the importance of bees can spread awareness and inspire more people to help. Remember, every small action counts. The more people who support bees, the better our environment and food supply will be.
Supporting local honey producers is another simple way to help. When you buy local honey, you encourage ethical beekeeping and help keep local bee populations strong. You can also join community garden projects that focus on creating green spaces filled with bee-friendly plants. Another good idea is to build or buy a bee hotel. These give solitary bees a safe place to live and lay eggs. If you live in an apartment, don’t worry. You can still grow bee-friendly plants in pots on your balcony or windowsill. Every little effort adds up and helps protect these important pollinators for future generations.
