Six top tips for attracting bees to your garden

There are many reasons to lay out the welcome mat for bees in your garden and it really is as easy as offering food, shelter and water throughout the year.

As primary pollinators, bees are a vital part of both the human and animal food chains, and an integral link in a healthy, happy garden.

Across the world, bees have become vulnerable due to urbanisation and loss of habitat, the overuse of pesticides and modern agricultural practises.

One of the best things we can all do for bees, is grow our own food, no matter where we live.

And of course to do that, we need to attract these hard-working little pollinators into our gardens.

Here are our top tips for getting your own backyard buzzing…

1. Plant bee attracting plants

Bees are on the hunt for pollen and it’s so simple for you to provide it.

Scatter a variety of wildflowers to ensure a good supply of pollen through warmer months or you can plant a selection of bee attracting perennials, bulbs and herbs.

Honey bees forage all year, but most native bees take a break mid-winter.

2. Provide habitat and water

While honeybees live in colonies and hives, most bee species nest underground or in natural cavities. Make sure your garden provides some basic protected habitat or include an insect house. And don’t forget the water. Place bowls of shallow water around the garden and include a rock or landing place in the bowl to enable, bees to drink safely

3. Reduce pesticide use

Most pesticides are broad acting, so the more organic your garden, the better it is for all beneficial insects including bees. Exclusion netting is a great way to protect crops without the need for harmful sprays. Also try companion planting – it’s a natural way to reduce pests in your garden.

4. Let your vegies bolt

Seeding plants are a bee’s best friend. All that food gives the bees a chance to bulk up to survive the colder months and make it to spring. It might look messy to an amateur eye, but a healthy garden has a few leafy vegetables bolting after harvest – and you get to save some of the seed.

5. Get to know the locals

There are many different types of bees; some local to your area, some to your state, others to Australia, as well as several introduced species. Stop and take the time to learn which bees are visiting your garden. It’s important to know the difference that you can offer suitable accommodation.

6. Become a beekeeper

Urban and backyard beekeeping is in the midst of a revival as we all come to understand the importance of bees in our food cycle and the role that domesticated honeybees can play in pollinating crops and gardens. If you can’t have a hive yourself, support local beekeepers by buying honey directly from them.