New Worlds of Body, Mind & Spirit Since 1901
| Colony collapse disorder is causing an alarming loss of honeybee populations. We depend on honeybees to pollinate food-bearing plants, especially fruit trees. Bees have been important to humans for millennia and are intimately entwined with human history. Honey is a superfood and a natural antimicrobial agent. We can attract honeybees to pollinate in our gardens and encourage the healthy proliferation of these important insects.
Plant a variety of annuals in pots or in a small garden bed, and place a small bowl of water or a birdbath there, too. Annuals that attract bees include borage, sunflowers, cosmos, cornflowers, calendula, and asters. Some of these can be planted from seed earlier in spring, and many are available from your local garden shop. Honeybees are gentle and will not sting unless their lives are in danger (as stinging kills them). Sit in your garden and watch them busily pollinate your flowers. Maybe they'll inspire you to be more industrious! |
