Bees play a crucial role in our ecosystems and agriculture as they are responsible for pollinating a significant portion of the world’s food crops, from fruits and vegetables to nuts and seeds. Without bees, many of these crops would struggle to reproduce, leading to reduced yields, food scarcity in some areas and potentially higher food prices.

But over the past few decades, bee populations in the U.S. and worldwide have been declining at an alarming rate. This decline is primarily attributed to various factors, including habitat loss, pesticide use, climate change, and diseases.

The risks posed by declining bee populations extend beyond agriculture. Ecosystems around the world rely on bees for pollinating wild plants, which form the base of food webs for many wild animal species. A decline in bees can disrupt these ecosystems, affecting biodiversity and ecosystem stability.

You Can Help Bees

Homeowners, however, can play a crucial role in supporting bee populations, and helping these invaluable insects doesn’t require the effort and expense of becoming a full-blown beekeeper. Individuals can make a significant impact by creating bee-friendly environments in their own yards. In fact, people living in townhouses or condominiums can support bee populations; living on a five-acre lot isn’t necessary.

Below are several practical steps homeowners can take to help bees thrive:

• Plant Bee-Friendly Gardens. Planting a diverse array of flowers that bloom at different times throughout the year provides bees with a continuous source of pollen and nectar – and also means you will be able to enjoy the flowering plants from spring to early fall. Choose native plants whenever possible, as they are well-adapted to the local climate and support local bee species. Examples of bee-friendly plants include lavender, sunflowers, bee balm, coneflowers, and wildflowers. Grouping plants of the same species together in clusters can also attract more bees.
• Avoid Pesticides. Pesticides, particularly neonicotinoids, are harmful to bees. Instead of using chemical pesticides, opt for organic and natural pest control methods. These methods include introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs or using insecticidal soaps and oils that are less harmful to bees.
• Provide Water Sources. Bees need water, especially during the hot weather so common to the Midwest. Create shallow dishes filled with water and place small stones or pebbles inside to provide bees with a safe place to land and drink without drowning. Keeping the water source clean and refilling it regularly to ensure it remains accessible to bees will do much to help bees survive intense summer heat.
• Build Bee Habitats. Many bee species nest in the ground or in hollow plant stems. By leaving some areas of bare soil or creating nesting habitats by bundling together hollow bamboo stems or drilling holes of various sizes in untreated wood, you’ll create structures that provide safe places for solitary bees to lay their eggs and can attract a wide range of bee species to your garden.
• Support Local Beekeepers. Buying honey and other bee products from local beekeepers supports their efforts to maintain healthy bee populations. Many beekeepers also offer educational opportunities to learn about bees and their importance to ecosystems.
• Spread the Word. Encourage friends, family, and neighbors to adopt bee-friendly practices in their own gardens. Many people aren’t fully aware of the plight of bees and even more don’t understand how easy it can be to help.
• Get Involved in Citizen Science. Many municipalities, counties and universities sponsor bee-friendly citizen science projects, such as bee monitoring programs, which provide valuable data on bee populations and health. Participating in these initiatives can contribute to broader efforts to understand and conserve bees.

By taking these steps, homeowners can make a positive impact on bee populations and contribute to the overall health of ecosystems. Certainly, the decline of bee populations is a complex issue with far-reaching consequences, but even small, individual actions collectively can make a difference. As more people become aware of the importance of bees and take steps to protect them, we can ensure a brighter future for these essential creatures and our environment.

Our certified arborists are experts in tree care, but they also understand the important role bees play in our environment. Their extensive experience with hundreds of tree species, tree and plant care can make a crucial difference when it comes to enhancing the beauty of your home and helping protect the environment.

Contact us today and let our insured, experienced professionals take care of all your tree-related needs!