How You Can Prepare Your Landscape to Attract More Bees
Newsflash: bee populations across the world are shrinking at an alarming rate. Many different species of bees are simply leaving their hives and never coming back. This is indeed alarming because people rely on bees for many different products. From honey to beeswax and even pollination in the garden, the role of bees in society is absolutely critical.
As scientists try to understand what exactly could be causing a decline in bee populations, you can play an active role in saving the bees by preparing your landscape accordingly.
Here are four ways you can prepare your landscape to make it friendlier for bees.
1. Avoid too much genetic modification
In an attempt to achieve kerb appeal, many homeowners have resorted to unnatural solutions for their gardens. For example, they tend to overuse fertilizer while planting genetically modified vegetation. This is done in an attempt to make the lawn greener and flowers brighter.
However, such practices may be pushing bees away from your yard. Bees prefer natural plants that produce sweet nectar to feed on. If all your flowers and shrubs are genetically modified, the bees might turn away to look for food elsewhere. Work with your landscaping contractor to plant more natural alternatives such as clovers and lavender.
2. Plant crops that bees love
In addition to being more natural, do some research into plants that bees love to be around. Prepare your garden, lawn or yard to grow these plants so as to attract more bees. Some popular bee-friendly plants include:
- Sunflowers
- Horsemint
- Asters
- Dragonhead
But it doesn't just stop with planting. Timing is also important, and you should properly time the blooming of your flowers. Have them bloom just when the weather gets warm and the bees come out to eat.
3. Make the bees feel at home
Bees live in more places than just hives. Depending on the species, bees may turn hollow tree trunks, branches and loose pieces of earth into their homes. Therefore, while landscaping, don't be too quick to throw away loose leaves and dead branches. You can also dig shallow burrows in strategic areas of your outdoor space. Bees will appreciate your hospitality.
4. Cut down on the mulch
Mulch plays an important role in promoting vegetation growth. However, applying mulch across the entire garden can shut out local bees from establishing habitats. Leave some bare earth in various parts of the garden for bees to use. Some species of bees dig loose earth and turn it into their homes.