Bee friendly garden

[cheshirecat25]

One of the best things you can do for native pollinators is to have native plants in your garden. Native plants will be the most beneficial for everything, from butterflies to native bees. Another huge advantage of native plants is that they will be low-maintenance and shouldn't require much if any extra water once they are established since they are adapted to your local conditions. Consider reaching out to your local chapter of the California Native Plant Society: https://www.cnps.org/chapters/map. They should have plenty of resources and will help you to plan your garden, pick the right plants, suggest nurseries, and have tips for controlling garden pests without pesticides.

You didn't specify what type of bees you are looking to attract, but it is worth noting that the honey bee, while important for commercial crop pollination, is not native to the U.S. and can push out native bees and other pollinators. There are so many wonderful native bees that are incredibly important for native ecosystems that are also very docile and fun to watch. More info on California native bees here that includes some gardening tips: https://arboretum.ucdavis.edu/blog/beyond-honey-bee-learn-more-about-california-native-bees There is a lot you can do to help pollinators with minimal effort, such as leaving sticks or leaf litter undisturbed since many bees nest on the ground. I am also a big fan of "lazy gardening", which is setting aside a corner of your yard for native weeds to pop up and grow rather than mowing or putting down mulch or pearock.

As you might be able to tell, this is something I am super passionate about. Chicken-keeping is a hobby of mine, but I am actually an entomologist by profession, so let me know if you have any additional questions! I am located in Florida, but should be able to help connect you with resources in your area.

These have been wonderful! Great ideas and resources. I am looking to attract any kind of bee. I just want to help them out. I've had my house for a year and I don't ever use any pesticides so I think my yard is ideal and safe.

 

[swamphiker]

OMG yes!!! Our previously bare, new yard seriously had NOTHING but "mutt grass and weeds". We have planted tons of Oregon natives, and are letting our "lawn" stay mixed. Clover, weeds with such pretty, tiny flowers...and the back part completely wild. No mowing, no pulling except to help native plants we put in there. We also laid down logs and pieces of wood for garter snakes to shelter under. You are our kind of person!!! <3

Yay, that is awesome! I am hopeful that the manicured lawn look will one day fall out of favor.