How to Help Native Bees Thrive
Photo by Nick Dorian
Steps to Support Native Bees in Chicagoland Gardens
Plant native blooming trees, shrubs and wildflowers, which provide nectar and pollen for bees. Choose varieties that bloom at different times from spring through fall, as various bee species emerge throughout the growing season and some specialize on flowers that only bloom during specific periods. Nick Dorian—a postgraduate pollinator researcher at the Chicago Botanic Garden, in Glencoe—suggests planting false indigo, wild bergamot, blue vervain and Joe-Pye weed in sunny gardens and Virginia waterleaf, wild geranium and zigzag goldenrod in shady areas.
When purchasing plants, avoid those treated with insecticides or fungicides that can harm bees. It’s also best to avoid using pesticides in landscaping.
Provide nesting habitats for solitary bees by leaving plant stalks standing over the winter—such as those from Joe-Pye weed, wild bergamot and raspberry plants—which bees can use for nesting. Experts advise against purchasing bee hotels, as they may spread disease.
Participate in citizen science activities such as Project Bee Spotter. Identifying bees can be challenging, but posting photographs on iNaturalist or Project Bee Spotter allows experts and enthusiasts to assist with identification.
For more information, visit TheBeeConservancy.org/10-ways-to-save-the-bees.
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