A Bee Friendly Garden
Here at Honeybuns, we’re very passionate about nature and we pride ourselves on being as environmentally-friendly as possible. We’ve recently become members of the Bumblebee Conservation Trust – a wonderful charity dedicated to supporting conservation and raising awareness of our bumblebees. Bumblebees are vitally important for the pollination of flowers and crops; however numbers are in decline and they face the risk of extinction. Sadly, two species have already become nationally extinct.
There are lots of simple things you can do in your garden to make it more enticing and welcoming to bumblebees – these are perfect to do now as the weather starts to warm up and summer approaches. We already have a wealth of bee friendly plants growing here at the bakery, but we’re keen to keep making steps to make the site as bee friendly as we can.
Plant bee-friendly flowers
Simple and traditional plants are your best bet, as they contain lots of pollen and nectar and are easily accessible by the bees. Try to go for those that have single flowers and not too many petals. Lavender, clematis, honeysuckle, phacelia and herbs with flowers (such as borage, chives and rosemary) are all ideal.
Have a constant supply
Make sure that you have a good mix of flowering plants, so as one ends, another begins. This will mean that the bees are provided with a supply of nectar all year round.
It’s also important to look after your plants; regular deadheading and good plant care will ensure that your flowers last for as long as possible, therefore lengthening the nectar supply for the bees.
Avoid pesticides
Using chemicals can harm bees, even if that’s not your intention. Try to opt for natural pest controls such as netting and mesh barriers.
Make a bee house
These are perfect for providing a place for bees to nest. Houses are simple and inexpensive to create and there are plenty of online tutorials that will give you some guidance and tips.
Have a bee-friendly water supply
A shallow dish, some small stones (or marbles) and clean water are all you need to make a bee watering hole. It’s best positioned next to the plants that are most popular with your bees. An alternative could be to pop some pebbles into your bird bath.
For more information on bumblebees and the Bumblebee Conservation Trust, visit their website and their very useful information on Gardening for Bumblebees.
