In addition to their significant role in food security, bees -- particularly the wild ones -- are important pollinators of our native plants, including trees. Many of our native plants have co-evolved with certain wild bee species and rely on them to reproduce. But Ontario’s bee populations are declining.
Luckily, there are simple things we can do in our yards to support wild bees in the city! Here are three ways to get started:
1. Design your garden with wild bees in mind: ensure there is a continuous succession of nectar- and pollen-producing plants flowering from spring through fall. Plant different flower colours, shapes and heights. Native bees are generally attracted to white, yellow, blue and purple flowers.
2. Keep existing habitat in your yard: in other words “let it bee”. Leave dead stems on plants in fall so solitary bees can use them as nesting habitat. Where possible, leave cavities in the ground (left by rodents) or in trees for our only wild social bees (bumblebees) to nest in. These cavities also provide a good place for bees to hide during storms.
3. Avoid buying plants that have been pre-treated with synthetic pesticides: neonicotinoids and other systemic pesticides can be very harmful to bees. Ask your nursery or plant supplier to confirm their plants are neonicotinoid-free.
If you live in Ajax, Toronto, or York Region, you can purchase a Native Bee Garden Kit through LEAF to easily create bee-friendly habitat in your yard! The kits contain a variety native shrubs and perennials that support wild bees, and come with garden plans to assist you with design and planting. LEAF also offers a variety of native trees and shrubs that support native bees through the Backyard Tree Planting Program.
To learn more about the threats our wild bees are facing and the simple things you can do to help, join us on Wednesday, May 18, 2016 at the North York Civic Centre for a presentation from native pollinator expert Sheila Colla, Ph.D. Event details and registration here.
Melissa Williams is LEAF's Program Manager.
