Let Those Weeds Grow
Alright, folks, listen up! We all know honey bees are crucial for pollinating our gardens and crops, but let's not forget about the importance of certain plants for these little guys. I'm talking about dandelions, henbit, and purple dead nettles, three flowering plants that are especially vital for honey bees right now. Bees are coming out of winter but it’s not spring, yet. Our fuzzy friends needs to restock their pantry with pollen and nectar.
Dandelions
Now, I know some of you might see dandelions as a pesky weed, but hold on a minute! These guys are actually a critical source of nectar and pollen for honey bees in the early spring. They're among the first plants to bloom, providing bees with some much-needed nourishment after a long winter hibernation. And they're tough as nails, able to grow in all sorts of soils, which makes them a reliable source of food for bees in areas where other plants might struggle.
Purple Dead Nettles
Next up, we've got purple dead nettles, or lamium, another flowering plant that's a real treat for honey bees. These guys bloom now through early summer, providing bees with a much-needed source of food during a time when other plants might be less plentiful.
Henbit
Lastly, we have henbit, a member of the mint family that's often seen as a nuisance in lawns and gardens. But let me tell you, honey bees love this stuff! The plant produces nectar over a long period of time, which makes it a valuable food source for bees throughout the spring and early summer.
So, to sum it up, dandelions, purple dead nettles, and henbit are all super important sources of nectar and pollen for honey bees. By making sure these plants are available, we can help support healthy bee populations and ensure they keep doing their important work of pollinating our crops and flowers. So the next time you see one of these little guys, take a moment to appreciate their crucial role in our ecosystem.
Kevin Woods
Creative Director & Beekeeper