Whether in the countryside or in the city, we can all make a little room for the bees.
Shelter for the wild bees
Simple small facilities can accommodate wild bees. These require the recreation of habitats where some species may nest. Often, it does not take much: a pile of sand or wood in the garden will for example provide a natural habitat for some ground-nesting species. Do you live in the city? There are many models of artificial nest boxes, of all shapes and sizes, which can decorate your patio.
Feeding the bees
Bees do not just need to take shelter, they must also feed. How to help them?
If you have a garden, nothing could be simpler: let a few wild plants and flowers grow! If you maintain a flowerbed, or you have a lovely flowered balcony, choose local plants rich in nectar.
Do you have a small terrace in the city? Why not build a small garden? Thyme, onion, dill, fennel, radish and other plants that delight our taste buds shall also delight the bees.
Eco-friendly gardening
Do you want to deal with weeds in your flower bed, slugs plaguing your garden or moles turning over your lawns? Opt for a natural solution, because pesticides leave traces in nature. Our bees, while collecting nectar, absorb these substances, which may cause adverse effects (see 'pesticides').
For many troubles in and around the house, the saying "prevention is better than cure" must be applied. Sow at the right time and use a specially designed sheet to prevent weeds. Plan your garden in an environmentally friendly manner: hedgehogs, amphibians and birds adore slugs,...
There are many other tips and tricks in the "Biocides and pesticides: not without risks" brochure of the FPS Health, Food Chain Safety and Environment.
Several associations offer advice for the maintenance of your gardens and balconies in respect of the environment and our friends the bees. For example:
• Natagora
• Brochure of Brussels Environment: a natural and friendly garden
• Nature & Progress
• Natuurpunt
I am committed to www.igivelifetomyplanet.be.
Finally, be aware that if you are still using a phytopharmaceutical product, please follow the instructions carefully in order to minimise the risks to humans, animals and nature.