Leaving hollow stems and leaf litter in your yard over the winter is like rolling out the red carpet for bees, especially those solitary superstars. These cozy nooks and crannies provide prime real estate for overwintering bee larvae and shelter for adult bees seeking refuge from the cold. Without these hiding spots, our buzzing buddies would have a tougher time surviving the winter chill. Plus, when spring rolls around, these little hideaways become bustling bee nurseries, where new generations of pollinators can hatch and kickstart the pollination party all over again. So, by giving bees a cozy winter hideout, we’re not just being hospitable hosts – we’re also helping to ensure a thriving bee population come springtime. It’s a win-win for everyone, bees included!
Bee-friendly plants are the unsung heroes of the garden, providing a steady flow of nectar and pollen that keeps our buzzing friends well-fed no matter the season. Bees like bright white, yellow, blue, or UV shades in their petals with shallow, tubular shaped flowers that have landing platforms so they can rest their wings as they work. And, while it’s easy to stick to the same old favorites, exploring native species benefits both gardeners and bees alike. Have a look at the Blue Flax or Wild Bergamot. These beautiful wildflowers, adorned with delicate slender purple buds and blossoms, are a treasure trove for bees and butterflies alike, attracting a flurry of activity throughout the sunny summer months. By embracing native plants like these, we not only beautify our gardens but also create vital havens for our essential pollinators.
As we prepare for another gardening season, let’s recognize the importance of bees in our ecosystem. By providing winter hideouts and planting bee-friendly species we create havens for these essential pollinators. Let’s nurture our gardens with care, remembering that by supporting bees, we support the health of our planet. Happy gardening, and may our gardens thrive with buzzing life!
If you want some more information on what sort of plants and flowers bees like check out the incredibly detailed guide put out by pollinator.org or come to Grace on April 28 when we will be hosting the City of Calgary Parks Department as they share their own wealth of knowledge about the importance of bees and other pollinators.
Resources:
- watersheds.ca/planting-your-own-pollinator-garden/?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwncWvBhD_ARIsAEb2HW_isyT6g-ssnE7qBagEGXCZtJ10pOEuk-1nz7hS8_NHd4NNHerSByYaAnoDEALw_wcB
- pollinator.org/guides-canada
- pollinator.org/pollinator.org/assets/generalFiles/FescueGrasslnd_158.2017.ver4.pdf
- calgary.ca/parks/wildlife/bees.html
