HOW YOU CAN HELP SAVE THE BEES!

1. PLANT A BEE GARDEN

One of the largest threats to bees is a lack of safe habitat where they can build homes and find a variety of nutritious food sources. By planting a bee garden, you can create a habitat corridor with plants that are rich in pollen and nectar. You don’t need a ton of space to grow bee-friendly plants — gardens can be established in window boxes, flowerpots and planters, and across yards. You can also get involved with local organizations and governments to find opportunities to enrich public and shared spaces.

2. GO CHEMICAL-FREE FOR BEES

Synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, herbicides, and neonicotinoids are harmful to bees, wreaking havoc on their sensitive systems. Avoid treating your garden and green spaces with synthetics. Instead, use organic products and natural solutions such as compost to aid soil health and adding beneficial insects that keep pests away like ladybugs and praying mantises.

No GMO sign infront of a hybrid Corn fie

3. CREATE A BEE BATH

Bees work up quite a thirst foraging and collecting nectar. Fill a shallow birdbath or bowl with clean water, and arrange pebbles and stones inside so that they break the water’s surface. Bees will land on the stones and pebbles to take a long, refreshing drink.

4. SUPPORT LOCAL BEEKEEPERS AND ORGANIZATIONS

Local beekeepers work hard to nurture their bees and the local community. The easiest way to show your appreciation is to buy locally-made honey and beeswax products. Many beekeepers use products from their hives to create soaps, lotions, and beeswax candles. Plus, local honey is not only delicious — it is made from local flora and may help with seasonal allergies! You can also give time, resources, and monetary donations to local beekeeping societies and environmental groups to help their programs grow.

5. BUILD HOMES FOR NATIVE BEES

Did you know that, except for honeybees, most bees are solitary creatures? 70% of solitary bees live underground, while 30% live in holes inside trees or hollow stems. Species like bumblebees build their nests in undisturbed land, and you can provide a haven for them by leaving an untouched plot of land for them in your garden! “Bee condos” — which have small tube “apartments” — allow species like mason bees to take up residence. They’re easy to make or purchase. Our Sponsor-A-Hive program places solitary bee homes in gardens, schools, and communities around the U.S. and Canada.