6 tips for supporting the bees

So you want to help the bees but don't know how? Read on :)

Bees are crucial for the survival of man, yet there is a large amount of disinformation out there about helping bees which can cause more harm than good, here are some of the best ways you can help.

Plant pollinator friendly flowers

Plants rich in pollen and nectar are essential for feeding our bees. The Royal Horticulture Society (RHS) have a great website on the best types which can be found here: www.rhs.org.uk/science/conservation-biodiversity/wildlife/plants-for-pollinators

Reduce pesticide use

If you're a gardener then be conscious about what you're putting on your plants and use pesticides only when it's necessary. Ideally resort to biological controls and encouraging natural enemies of the pests first, as this might prevent the use of spraying. This is also the same advice as per the RHS.

Allow the grass to grow

Mowing the lawn less often might make the garden look less tidy but it provides a wonderful source of pollen and nectar to local bees and other pollinators, whilst also allowing you to spend the time doing something more fun like having a BBQ. Best part is if neighbours complain then you can give them the very good excuse as to why!

Put up a bee hotel

Whilst honeybees and bumblebees live in colonies, the majority of bees are solitary and need a place to stay, ideally a bee hotel in the garden is a great way to support them.

Put down a water source

Bees need water like any other animal. Ideally a small dish or container with a few rocks or marbles is best to prevent them from drowning.

Don't feed honeybees honey

It might sound strange and counter productive but don't feed bees especially honeybees honey from the supermarket. Sadly most honey off the shelves comes from abroad and some can harbour nasty diseases such as American Foulbrood, which if carried into a bee colony is a death sentence to the bees. Whilst this doesn't affect humans it can have a massive impact on the local bees. If you see an exhausted bee then the best remedy is feeding them a teaspoon of 1 part sugar to 1 part water. They'll soon eat it up!