Help Save the Bees

Apr 4, 2018 | Gardening, General

Did you know that bees pollinate about 70 different crop species, and those crops feed 90% of the world’s population? That’s just one of the reasons why the decline of the honey bee is cause for concern. Honey bees are disappearing at an alarming rate and some of the most likely causes are the increased use of pesticides, monoculture (single crop planting), and the destruction of natural habitat.

The ripple effect of the bee’s disappearance will touch every corner of the world. Albert Einstein said, “If the bee disappeared off the face of the earth, man would only have four years left to live.” While we seem to be testing his hypothesis, we must work to make sure we never have to find out.

We can all do a part in saving the bee in small ways that will make a big difference. Don’t use any chemicals in your garden that will poison and contaminate bees and their colonies. Make way stations (small watering dishes) to hydrate bees. Choose to plant bee-friendly flowers in your garden to attract and sustain bees.

As you plan your garden this spring, think of ways to encourage bees to your plantings. Choose flowers that are native to your area, and are colorful and fragrant. Flowers that bloom early and for an extended period offer a continuous supply of nectar. Plant bee-friendly specimens in groups to get the most benefit (it’s also visually pleasing in your garden).

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Here are some bee-friendly plants that look beautiful in a garden:

  • Black Eyed Susan
  • Bee Balm
  • Butterfly Bush
  • Calendula
  • Cosmos
  • Coneflower
  • Crocus
  • Delphinium
  • Goldenrod
  • Heliotrope
  • Joe Pye Weed
  • Lavender
  • Mint
  • Marigold
  • Nasturium
  • Pansies
  • Sage
  • Sedum
  • Sweet Peas
  • Sun Flowers
  • Thyme
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Fun Bee Facts!

  • Honey never spoils.
  • Bees are the only insect that produces food that humans eat.
  • Honey bees communicate by dancing.

“Bee” inspired to do your part in the effort to save this essential insect. Stop by the nursery and we’ll lead you to the plants and flowers that will best entice bees to your garden. You might get a few butterflies and hummingbirds too!

Calgo Gardens is grounded in the belief that nature, art, and positive energy feed our spirits. If “earth” without “ART” is “eh,” Calgo chooses to nurture earth’s ART. Our style and feel is the result of consciously living our philosophy—harmony by design. eARTh will be alive with posts about Calgo-style garden ideas, plants and flowers we love, do-it-yourself projects, new items from THE BARN—and all the dirt (and fun!) that’s happening at Calgo!