Bees play a vital role in pollinating flowers, fruits, and vegetables, and together with other pollinators, are responsible for pollinating global food crops, including almonds, apples, and blueberries. Bees are attracted to plants with brightly coloured flowers that produce large amounts of nectar and pollen. Flowers that attract bees to your garden support bee populations and ensure the continued pollination of our food.
Why it is important to attract bees to your garden
Bee populations have declined in recent years due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change.
Planting bee-attracting plants provides a food source for bees and makes your garden beautiful. It’s an effective way to support bee populations and ensure the continued pollination of our food.
How do bees pollinate plants
Bees pollinate plants by transferring pollen from the male part of the flower (the stamen) to the female part of the flower (the pistil). When a bee lands on a flower to collect nectar, pollen grains from the stamen stick to the bee’s hairy body. As the bee moves from flower to flower, some of the pollen is transferred to the pistil of the next flower, where it can fertilise the ovules and allow the plant to produce seeds and fruit.
Bees have several adaptations that make them excellent pollinators:
- their hairy bodies and electrostatic charge help pollen grains stick to their bodies,
- long tongues and the ability to hover in place allow them to access hard-to-reach nectar in deep flowers, and
- their keen sense of smell to help them locate flowers that are rich in nectar and pollen.
Bees also benefit from the flowers they visit, as they use the nectar and pollen as a source of food for themselves and their offspring. This symbiotic relationship between bees and plants is essential for the health and productivity of both bees and plants.
8 Flowers to plant in your garden to attract bees
1. Clover. Clover is a favourite of bees due to its abundance of nectar and pollen. It is also an excellent source of nutrition for bees and other pollinators.
2. Lavender. The fragrant blooms of lavender are irresistible to bees, and the nectar is used to produce highly aromatic honey.
3. Sunflowers. The large, bright flowers of sunflowers are attractive to bees and provide an abundant source of nectar and pollen.
4. Wildflowers. Planting a mix of wildflowers, such as clover, daisies, and poppies, can provide a diverse and abundant source of nectar and pollen for bees.
5. Borage. The delicate blue flowers of borage are highly attractive to bees, and the nectar produces mild and pleasant honey.
6. Sage. The fragrant flowers of sage are highly attractive to bees, and the nectar produces light and delicate honey.
7. Marigolds. The bright and cheerful flowers of marigolds are not only attractive to bees, but also repel pests that can damage other plants in your garden.
8. Echinacea. The vibrant purple flowers of echinacea are a favourite of both bees and butterflies, and the nectar is used to produce mild and fruity honey
What plants help produce the best honey?
Generally, plants that produce large amounts of nectar and pollen and are free from pesticides and other chemicals are likely to produce the highest quality honey. A diverse and abundant source of food throughout the season will help bees produce better quality honey.It ultimately depends on the region and the availability of food sources for the bees.
Consider planting a variety of plants that attract bees in your garden this season and do your part in supporting bee populations.