Did you know that honey bees are responsible for pollinating approximately 70% of the world’s crops? In order to make one pound of honey a single bee would have to fly 90,000 miles.
Over the past 15 years colonies of bees have been disappearing. This is known as the ‘colony collapse disorder,’ where billions of honey bees across the world are leaving their hives and failing to return.
What many people don’t know, is that honey bees are a staple species in our environment. Without their hard work, we would struggle to survive. That's why action needs to be taken. Right now they need us as much as we need them.
If you plan on adding to your garden, keep these annuals in mind to make a bee friendly space!
Five annuals for a bee friendly garden
(1) Cosmos
Cosmos are super easy to grow and bloom in late summer and fall. This gives honey bee's a long lasting food source. Grow cosmos in clusters so honey bees are able to collect a bunch of pollen and nectar without having to fly to far.
(2) Zinnias
Zinnias are also late bloomers so they are a great source of pollen and nectar in the off season. Zinnias are jam packed with nectar and pollen which are essential to building hives making these annuals a great pick to help the bees.
(3) Dahlia
Dahlia's are easy to grow from seed and have an open flower. This makes it easy for bees to feed on on this flower.
(4) Snapdragons
Snapdragons release four times the scent of any other flower. Since the scent is so strong, it will hit a bee's radar in no time, making this flower an easy find for pollen and nectar.
(5) Sweet Alyssum
Sweet alyssum's grow in dense clusters of tiny flowers. The flowers are full of pollen and nectar which makes for great feeding grounds.
Keep these flowers in mind when adding to your garden! Don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss any of our posts!
Happy planting!
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