Celebrate World Bee Day by supporting the bees in your own garden. Why did the UN introduce World Bee Day? Sadly, bees, along with other pollinators like butterflies, bats, and hummingbirds, are facing increasing threats due to human activities. These threats endanger the crucial process of pollination, which is essential for the survival of our ecosystems.
35% of invertebrate pollinators, particularly bees and butterflies, and about 17% of vertebrate pollinators, such as bats, face extinction globally.
– UN
A large percentage of the world’s wild flowering plant species rely on animal pollination for their reproduction, as do a significant portion of food crops and agricultural land globally. The decline in pollinators poses a direct risk to food security and plays a vital role in preserving biodiversity.
Recognising the significance of pollinators, the United Nations has designated the 20th May as World Bee Day to shed light on the challenges these essential creatures are facing. The aim is to raise awareness about the importance of pollinators, the threats they encounter, and their vital role in sustainable development. By highlighting the contributions of bees and other pollinators, efforts can be made to protect them and address issues related to food supply and hunger, particularly in developing nations.
So, how can you support bees in your garden this World Bee Day?
1. Plant a diverse set of native plants, that flower at different times of the year
Enhancing biodiversity in your garden can be achieved by cultivating a wide variety of indigenous plants that bloom at various times throughout the year. By selecting plants that are native to your region, you are not only supporting the local ecosystem but also creating a visually appealing and ever-changing landscape. Imagine the vibrant colours and fragrant scents that will fill your garden as different plants burst into bloom during different seasons.
2. Avoid pesticides, fungicides or herbicides in our garden
In our garden, we make a conscious effort to steer clear of using pesticides, fungicides, or herbicides. Instead, we opt for natural and organic methods to maintain the health of our plants and soil. By avoiding these harmful chemicals, we are not only protecting the environment but also promoting a safer and healthier space for ourselves and our community.
3. Make a bee water fountain by leaving a water bowl outside
Choose a shallow basin or dish that is wide enough for bees to land on and access the water easily. It’s important to ensure that the water source is not too deep, as bees can drown in deep water.
4. Protect wild bee colonies when possible
Preserving the habitats of wild bee colonies is of utmost importance in order to ensure their long-term survival. By safeguarding their natural environments, we can provide these essential pollinators with the resources they need to thrive. This includes protecting their nesting sites, such as tree cavities, underground burrows, or even abandoned rodent nests. By maintaining a diverse range of flowering plants and trees in these areas, we can also ensure a steady supply of nectar and pollen for the bees to feed on.
5. Buy products from sustainable agricultural practices
Purchase plants sourced from sustainable nurseries this is not only beneficial for the environment but also for your health. When you choose products that are grown or produced in a sustainable way, you are supporting growers who prioritise eco-friendly methods. This means that the plants are grown free from harmful chemicals and pesticides and contribute to the wider ecosystem in a positive way.
It is crucial to take action to safeguard pollinators and prevent further decline in their populations. Monitoring the status of bees and other pollinators is essential to understand the threats they face and to implement measures to protect them. By preserving pollinators, we can help ensure food security, maintain biodiversity, and address global challenges related to agriculture and hunger. World Bee Day serves as a reminder of the importance of these tiny yet powerful creatures and the urgent need to protect them for the well-being of our planet.
Image by Jacqueline O’Gara
