While it’s understandable that many people are afraid of being stung by bees, this fear keeps some from recognizing their undeniable importance to Mother Nature and even our daily lives. Bees are pollinators, vital to many of the most important crops, and their presence can be a significant factor in an improved garden.

At Greenside, our landscaping experts can speak to you about the effect of bees on the garden. Let’s go over some basics about their benefits, plants they love and tips to attract them to your garden.

Bee Basics

There are numerous crops that depend on bees and other pollinators for continued life. This extends beyond the home garden – in farming, some of the plants that depend on bees are used to feed livestock and keep the entire operation running. Crops that depend on bees and other pollinators include apples, pumpkins, almonds, pears, blueberries, melons, plums, cotton and more.

Unfortunately, though, the US has lost over 50 percent of its managed honeybee colonies in the last 10 years. This is a frightening trend that could have major effects in the future.

Plants Bees Love

There are several plants that will easily attract bees to your garden:

  • Butterfly weed
  • Coneflower
  • Poppies
  • Clover
  • Black-eyed Susan
  • Bee Balm
  • Cranesbill

Tips to Attract Bees

There are several things you can do to attract bees to your garden for healthy reasons:

  • Diverse garden: Plant flowers and other plants that bloom during different times of the year. This will help attract both bees and other important pollinators. Choose trees and plants that vary in height, color and size.
  • Single flowers: Single flowers are great for providing food and nutrients for bees in a very easy place for them to access.
  • Pesticides: Pesticides have played a big role in the decline of bee colonies, as they are toxic to bees and other pollinators. Look to other pest control options for your garden.
  • Color: Bees are more attracted to specific colors: Blue, yellow and purple in flowers. Look for options like lavender, daisies, zinnias, snapdragons, bee balm and nepeta.

For more on how bees can benefit your garden, or to hear about our lawn maintenance and lawn clean up offerings along with other landscaping services, speak to the pros at Greenside today.