Bees are much more than honey makers. As pollinators, they play a vital role in producing many of the fruits, vegetables and nuts we eat. Without them, our diets would be far less varied.
What pollination does
When a bee visits a flower to collect nectar and pollen, grains of pollen stick to its body and are carried to the next flower. This transfer allows the plant to produce seeds and fruit. Apples, almonds, blueberries, cherries and many other crops depend heavily on insect pollination.
Not just honeybees
Honeybees get most of the attention, but there are thousands of species of wild bees, including bumblebees and solitary bees. Many of them are more efficient pollinators of certain crops than honeybees, and they are just as important to ecosystems.
Threats to pollinators
Habitat loss, pesticide use, disease and climate change all put pressure on bee populations. When fields are dominated by a single crop, bees may struggle to find food outside its short flowering season.
How you can help
Plant a variety of flowers that bloom from spring to autumn, leave some areas of your garden a little wild, avoid unnecessary pesticides and provide shallow water sources. Even a balcony with a few pots of herbs and flowers can support local pollinators.