Bees are essential to our ecosystem, but their populations have been declining for over two decades. While scientists investigate the causes, we can all help by creating bee-friendly havens in our gardens filled with flowers bees love.
Planting a Pollinator Paradise
Fill your garden with pollinating flowers, which are flowers that attract bees. Some of their favorites include irises, crocus, clematis, bleeding hearts, Grecian windflowers and bee balm. To ensure a steady food source throughout the seasons, plant a variety of these best flowers for bees with staggered blooming times. Here’s a simple plan to get you started:
Incorporate native plants that attract bees, like wildflowers, herbs, raspberries, blackberries and bee-friendly trees into your garden design. Select single-flowered varieties over double-headed blooms, since they tend to produce more of the nectar that bees love.
For more information on flowers bee love, read our in-depth blog on the best flowers to attract bees.
Creating a Bee-Friendly Habitat
Bees need more than just food. Provide them with nesting sites by leaving a portion of your sunny area uncultivated or by erecting a few wooden logs or bamboo stalks, called culms. Dead trees are also prime bee real estate, so consider leaving them standing if possible.
Going Green for the Bees
Chemical fertilizers and pesticides can harm bees. When creating your bee haven, opt for natural alternatives for both fertilization and pest control. This will keep your plants healthy and the bees buzzing happily.
By following these simple tips, you can create a beautiful garden that provides a vital food source and habitat for our precious pollinators. Let’s work together to create a world that buzzes with life!