Creating a bee-friendly space is not only a contribution to nature conservation, but also a practical solution for any gardener. After all, their presence can significantly improve plant health and increase crop abundance, while enriching the biodiversity of the local ecosystem.
Plant honey-giving plants
To attract bees to your garden, plant plants that provide nectar and pollen. Among annual flowers, for example, these include marigolds, velvets and sunflowers. For perennials, bet on lavender, sage, echinacea and catnip. Fruit trees such as apple or plum trees will also do well. Colors are also important. Bees are especially attracted to blue, purple, white and yellow flowers. You must also remember to provide insects with food throughout the season. To do this, plant flowering plants at different times, from early spring to late autumn.
Yellow flowers attract bees
Photo by Laura Macneil © UNSPLASH
Limit pesticides
These substances pose one of the greatest threats to the health of bees and other pollinators. Insects exposed to chemical pesticides such as insecticides, herbicides and fungicides can develop a number of health problems that threaten not only their lives, but also their entire colonies. So use natural methods of plant protection, such as predatory insects (such as ladybugs) or biological means. However, if you must use pesticides, choose those that are harmless to bees. Additionally, use them in the evening when the insects are no longer active.
Limit the use of pesticides
Photo by David Clode © UNSPLASH
Create a safe space
Bees also need water and shelter. Piles of stones or clumps of grass, will be of great help to them. It's also a good idea to install insect hotels. You can buy them or make them yourself from wooden blocks or bamboo tubes. Some bees, such as mason bees, nest in sandy soil or dead wood. So leave a bit of uncovered soil or a pile of branches and wood. Also, don 't forget a flat dish with water and stones for the bees to perch on. Also keep some "wild" areas in the garden with natural flowers. Bees often visit such areas because they are rich in plants they know well. Also try to mow the lawn less often.
Put an insect hotel in your garden
© W. Legutko/Fot. Denise Johnson © UNSPLASH
Are you decorating your garden? We have more information for you on decorating the space around your home!
Compiled by:KATARZYNA SZOSTAK
