Bees pollinate a big share of the crops we eat, from apples and almonds to blueberries and squash. They're under pressure from habitat loss, pesticides, parasites and climate change. The encouraging news is that ordinary people can make a real difference, even with a small yard or a balcony. Here's how.
1. Plant flowers that bloom across the seasons
Bees need food from early spring to late fall. Aim for a mix of plants so something is always blooming. Some reliable choices in many regions:
- Spring: crocus, wild lilac, fruit trees, willow
- Summer: bee balm, lavender, coneflower, sunflower, borage
- Fall: goldenrod, asters, sedum
2. Choose native plants
Native plants evolved alongside local bees and often support more species. Your local extension service or native plant society can suggest options for your area.
3. Plant in clumps
Bees forage more efficiently when they find patches of the same flower. Groups of three or more plants of one type are easier for bees to find than single scattered plants.
4. Skip or reduce pesticides
Many garden insecticides are harmful to bees. If you need to treat a problem, choose the least toxic option, avoid spraying open flowers, and spray in the evening when bees are less active. Herbicides can also remove the "weeds," like clover and dandelions, that bees rely on.
5. Let the lawn bloom
A perfect monoculture lawn is a food desert for bees. Letting clover, dandelions and other low-growing flowers bloom, or mowing less often, can provide valuable food. Campaigns like "No Mow May" encourage this in spring.
6. Provide nesting spots
About 70% of native bee species nest in the ground. Leave some patches of bare, undisturbed soil in a sunny spot. Other bees nest in hollow stems or old wood, so leave some dead stems standing over winter and consider a well-maintained bee hotel.
7. Leave the leaves
Many bumblebee queens overwinter in leaf litter and loose soil. Leaving fallen leaves in garden beds instead of bagging them gives them shelter.
8. Offer water
Bees need water, especially on hot days. A shallow dish with pebbles or marbles gives them somewhere to land without drowning. Refresh it regularly.
9. Buy from responsible beekeepers and farmers
Supporting local beekeepers, organic farms and brands that test for pesticides helps reward practices that are better for pollinators. You can also support organizations that protect pollinator habitat and fund bee research.
What about bee swarms?
If you see a swarm of honeybees clustered on a branch, don't panic or spray them. Swarming bees are usually gentle because they have no hive to defend. Contact a local beekeeping association, as many keep swarm lists and will collect them for free.
Bonus: Learn your bees
Get to know the bees visiting your garden. Honeybees, bumblebees, mason bees, sweat bees and leafcutter bees all look different. Community science projects let you photograph and log sightings to help researchers.
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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Not for infants under 12 months or anyone with bee or bee-product allergies.
