Bee Gardens

Gardening is a hobby enjoyed by people from all walks of life.

Those who enjoy gardening are usually concerned about all forms of nature – including bees and other beneficial insects.

Creating your own bee garden is a great way to help save bees.

Not only will you be helping hungry pollinators, you will also have a place of your own to connect with nature.

Bee friendly gardens come in all sizes and shapes. You do not have to own acres and acres of land. Small spaces can help feed bees too.

What kind of plants can be in a bee garden?  Perhaps you enjoy growing your own vegetables.  Or maybe an area of beautiful cut flowers is more your cup of tea?  Either can be managed in a way that is beneficial to friendly insects.

So many useful ideas for creating bee gardens can be implemented to ensure you are providing the food, water and cover needed by bees.

Remember, a space that welcomes bees does not have to be a large meadow (even though that is wonderful).  You may have a few beds with blooming plants or several planted pots that create a container garden for bees on your patio.

Of course, if you are especially interested in providing food for bees – choose the best flowers for bees .  Not every blooming plant provides nectar or pollen.

Also, consider if the plants you desire will do well in  your region. Try to fill nectar gaps when native flowers are not in bloom.

If you have the space, don’t be afraid to think big.  There are many trees that feed bees.  While they may not bloom a long time, they provide quite an abundance of nectar and nice shade for you later in the year

All insects need water.  Do you have room to create a clean water source for bees? 

Larger sources (even a small water garden) are easier maintained but even small bee water stations can be of benefit.

The garden offers many opportunities to teach children about the importance of bees.  Bee garden crafts can be an wonderful education experience.

Honey bees and other pollinators are in peril. Choosing to garden in a bee friendly way is a great way to help these important insects.

This can be done through planting with bees in mind.  It is also wise to use bee friendly weed killers and other herbicides and pesticides that do no harm.

Not everyone wants to learn how to keep bees.  But, every gardener can make a difference when they keep the needs of bees in mind.