Bees are faring no better. Lawn chemicals (herbicides,
pesticides and fungicides), loss of nesting grounds and a decrease in wildflowers
have had a negative impact on their numbers. Bees are important to the survival
of many plants, including many of the foods we eat because they serve as
pollinators and pollination is essential for propagation.
What can you do to help sustain the bees in your
area? Turn part of your lawn into a flower garden of native wildflowers. Plant
bee-friendly domestic flowers. Select single-flower tops, such
as daisies or marigolds and plant a variety to sustain the entire growing
season. Below is a list of suggestions, however, you can always ask your local
nursery to show you what flowers they recommend for your area. Also, be sure to
ask for plants that are chemical-free!
Spring: Crocus, Hyacinth, Borage, Calendula, Wild Lilac
Summer: Bee Balm, Cosmos, Echinacea
(coneflowers), Snapdragons, Foxglove, Hosta, Black-eyed
Susan,
Butterflyweed
Fall: Zinnias, Goldenrod, Sedum, Witch Hazel, Asters
Did you know that bees are blind to the color red? Be sure
to mix them with blue, purple violet, yellow and orange flowers. They need a
variety of flowers that bloom all through the growing season because most can
fly less than a mile from their nests.
Denise Devine is a USA TODAY bestselling author of sweet romantic comedy and she also writes inspirational romance. You can view all her books and current information on her upcoming book signings at www.deniseannettedevine.com.
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