With environmental issues on the rise, it is important to do everything possible to help conservation efforts. It is no secret that the bee population has been on the decline, and we should understand that this is an issue for the preservation of our wildlife. It’s understandable that many of us find bees to be an annoyance, but we also must understand that they’re vital to our planet.
There are numerous reasons behind the decline, including pesticide use, climate change, parasites and habitat losses, but the combination of these issues is having a dramatic and detrimental effect on bees.
Here Are a Few Tips to Help Save Bees:
The loss of bee populations across the country is alarming for the future of these vital pollinators, but it could also cause catastrophic problems with our crops and overall health of Earth. With honeybees and bumblebees in crisis, some are worried about the impact on our ability to grow crops that require pollination to grow and eventually produce fruit, seeds and nuts. Although there are major efforts to transport pollinating bees to help these plants and flowers, we also can do our small part at home.
Plant Local Flowers/ Plants
Fortunately, there are ways that you can help bolster bee populations by doing a few simple things in your community. The Honeybee Conservancy has tips for creating a bee-friendly backyard, including replacing some of your sod and grass with flowering plants, planting native flowers – which are flowers that are local to your ecosystem – using single flower tops like daisies and marigolds as The Almanac suggests, and planting year-round blooms.
Create Bee Ecosystem
We can also make a difference in our ecosystems by choosing organic seeds. Some hybridized plants have been bred not to seed, which means that they also don’t produce a sufficient amount of pollen for bees to use.
You can also build homes for bees, like areas created with piles of branches or bamboo, hollow reeds, and even wood nesting blocks. This will provide them with a protected area to construct a hive. Plus, by planning an area for bees, you can locate them in an area that’s convenient for you and your gardening where you won’t accidentally disturb the nest.
No Chemicals
It’s also important to avoid using any pesticides in your garden. Several pesticides, especially neonicotinoids, have been shown to affect bees. Only use natural fertilizers instead, which won’t discourage bees from pollinating your flowers.
Shop for plants for your home garden online now from Cold Stream Farm or call us today at 231-464-5809 for more information.
