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We rely on bees a lot. In fact, bees pollinate around 70% of the crops that feed 90% of the world. But the bee population has declined dramatically over the last few years, which means that we should all be doing what we can to ensure our bees not only survive, but thrive.
We met Beverley Glover at Cambridge University Botanic Garden to find out more behind her research into the very best plants for bees.
One way to help conserve bees in our gardens is to introduce more of the plants that they love into our outdoor spaces. Below are five plants which Beverley has suggested we start with. Why these plants? Because they are rich in pollen, which bees need to feed themselves, as well as their developing larvae.
- Verbena bonariensis
- Borago officinalis (Borage)
- Eryngium giganteum ‘Miss Willmott’s Ghost’
- Sedum ‘Herbstfreude’ (Ice Plant)
- Lavandula (Lavender)
All these plants can be found in the ‘Bee Borders’ at Cambridge University Botanic Garden and they’re bee friendly because their colours attract bees; they are nectar rich, have single flowers (doubles aren’t as good for bee access) and some give added value by way of scent. All are widely available and relatively easy to grow.
Visit the Cambridge University Botanic Garden website here, and follow them on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
The Plant Based Podcast 