Our gardens are incredible places, full of life, even the tiniest creatures! And amongst the flutter of butterflies and the scuttle of beetles, there are some truly amazing insects that deserve our attention: bugs! Not all bugs are creepy-crawlies; many are incredibly important for our planet, especially those busy little bees.
Why Bees Are Brill!
Bees aren’t just about making honey (though we do love a good honey toast!). They’re super important pollinators. This means that as they fly from flower to flower, collecting nectar, they help plants make seeds and grow new fruits and vegetables. Without bees, we wouldn’t have many of our favourite foods!
But sadly, bees are having a tough time. Their habitats are shrinking, and their food sources are declining, so they need our help. And guess what? You can be a bee hero right in your own garden!
Becoming a Bee House Architect
One fantastic way to help our buzzing buddies is by creating a special place for them to collect their nectar to make pollen – a nectar bar!
Beyond Bees: Caring for All Your Garden Wildlife
While bee houses are brilliant, there’s even more you can do to make your garden a haven for all sorts of wonderful wildlife:
Plant bee-friendly flowers: Choose flowers that are rich in nectar and pollen. Lavender, sunflowers, and foxgloves are all excellent choices.
Create a wild patch: Let a small area of your garden grow a bit wild. Long grass, nettles, and dandelions might not look tidy, but they provide essential food and shelter for many insects.
Provide water: A shallow dish of water with some pebbles in it (so bugs don’t drown) can be a lifesaver on a hot day.
Think before you spray: Try to avoid using pesticides in your garden, as these can be harmful to beneficial insects.
Leave fallen leaves: A pile of leaves can provide a warm, safe home for ladybirds and other overwintering bugs.
By taking these simple steps, you’re not just helping bugs; you’re helping your whole garden thrive. So, get creative, get building, and enjoy becoming a guardian of your own backyard ecosystem!