The bees can travel up to 5 km to forage the flowers in order to collect a little sweet nectar which will become good honey. During these long flights, the bees are subject to several dangers. Whether it is predation by birds, mammals or other insects, bees always fly while paying close attention to their environment. If that was the only risk they faced, they would be fine. But it is far from being the case. The environment in which we live has greatly endangered the survival of bees. The average annual loss of bee colonies in Quebec was around 50% in 2022. So what can be done to help the bees?
Needless to say, bee food comes from flowers, but not all types of flowers are attractive to bees. Some flowers are more attractive to them than others because of their smell and color. So what flowers can we plant to help them find the nectar and pollen they love so much?
Did you know that with a home vegetable garden, you offer a beautiful bouquet of flowers that bees and other pollinating insects are interested in? In fact, nearly 80% of what we eat must first have been pollinated by pollinating insects. Here are some vegetables and herbs that bees love.
And much more!
What we call weeds are actually an excellent source of nectar for bees. For example, towards the end of July, there is a small dip in flowering and the bees have more difficulty finding their food. This short period ends with the arrival of the goldenrod which flowers from August to September. It is the first plant to appear at this time of year and will flower until mid-September in some cases. Unfortunately, it is considered a weed and is often cut or pulled up. Let it grow, it will make a nice addition to your flower bed and requires no maintenance. Goldenrod and dandelion are two examples of unloved but very important flowers for bees.
Weeds allow bees and other pollinating insects to find an abundant source of food throughout the season and thus allows them to have a healthy and varied diet.
To help the bees, let them grow.
Goldenrod flower
A family business since 2009.
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