Bee Thoughtful!

I know, I know!  Most people run from bees, feel that they are in imminent danger from a lone bee, but the truth is, you’re not. At least not usually! There is always the exception to the rule. Today I am talking about the wonderful honey bee, the one you normally find in your garden, which are environmentally beneficial.

These industrious little buggers are responsible, directly or indirectly, for approximately 3 out of every 4 mouthfuls of food you take.  Yes, that many. They pollinate about 1/6 of the world’s flowering plants and about 400 agricultural plants. It takes about 50-100 flowers for a bee to collect enough pollen to take back to their hive. That’s usually just a single trip… (Maybe the origin of the phrase “busy little bee?”)

It is the worker bee that you normally encounter and they are not aggressive.  I know, they seem aggressive, but only if they feel threatened.  I am the same way, threaten me or mine and it’s on!! Why should bees be any different?  They are protecting themselves and the continuity of their hive. 

Unfortunately these little guys are becoming a bit scarce. There are some concerns about pesticides that affect the bees, either by killing them outright or slowly which allows the bee to introduce the contaminated pollen to the colony.   The pesticides can also affect the plant’s pollen production which in turn may make it useless to the bee, which in turn means less pollinating, which means less flower production leading to fewer seeds which leads to less plants which leads to less flower pollen and then less pollen for the bees….. You see the cycle.  There is also a Varroa mite that affects them by feeding on their bodily fluids (adults, pupal & larval stages) and may carry viruses that can cause body deformities, most notably in the wings. When this occurs they are unable to fly to the pollen and can cause a hive to starve.

Depending on whether you use an insecticide (An insecticide is a pesticide used against insects) or a pesticide (Pesticides are substances or mixture of substances intended for preventing, destroying , repelling or mitigating any pest; including insects, plant disease or weeds.) you should inquire about their usage around bees. Even if the bee isn’t the target, the use of chemicals can be a repellent which causes the bees to go elsewhere. So, when you can, use a biological pesticide (Biological pesticides include naturally occurring substances that control pests). One of these is Spinosad (for white fly, thrips, caterpillars, fire ants, etc.)** If you can, apply these treatments in the evening.  Bees are less likely to be out and less likely to bring it back to the colony. This also applies to any synthetic chemicals you may use. Before using any pesticide/insecticide, check with your local nursery to determine the possible effect on the bee community.

I believe we need to be aware of how we are treating our little honey-makers and treat them with kindness. Remember that the worker bees only sting when provoked.  I worked in a nursery for over 7 years and was stung only once, when I leaned against a pot and smushed a bee. It was self defense on his part, but unfortunately, it was his last act since they don’t live once they’ve stung someone.  Please, teach your children that they are not the enemy. If you stand still they usually go away. If they aren’t, gently wave your hand and shoo them off. If you end up with a hive in or near your home, contact a beekeeper. Often they will come pick up the hive for a small charge or even free.(Check their fees first though) The only time they don’t usually is if it is determined they are Africanized Honey bees, then you need to contact a pest control company for proper removal.

If you wish to attract bees to your yard plant a variety of flowers* that are easy for them to get into. These could be roses, citrus trees, lantana, vegetables and even allowing herbs to flower.  Yes, even weeds attract bees. The best flowers to attract bees are the ones that have open form. This way the bees can get to the pollen easier. Even a source of water nearby; whether a pond, birdbath or even a puddle can help these little buggers survive.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. It is important to all of us, plant, animal and human alike to have bees in our lives!

*An list of possible plants to use: Foxglove, Rockrose, Monarda, Snapdragon, Echinacea, Marigold, Lavender, Yarrow, Rue, Basil, Honeysuckle, Fruit trees, Zinnias, Delphinium, Alyssum, Mint, Borage, Cosmos, Sage, Sunflowers


**Some biological pesticides are: BT, which is a bacteria that is used on various types of insect larvae, such as caterpillers, fleas & mosquitos, to name a few. Also Ladybugs, Green Lacewings, Praying Mantis, Decollate Snails, Beneficial Nematodes as well as Mosquito Dunks. A good place to look up insects and what works on them is at www.Gardeninsects.com. They show the bug itself so if you aren't sure what your little visitor is, chances are it will be here! They do also have a link to www.buglogical.com where you can purchase the beneficial pesticides. Also, check with your local nursery (not home improvement stores) for Ladybugs, Decollate snails & Praying Mantis cocoons, especially during spring and early summer.