Dandy Dandelions & Brilliant Bees

STOP! STEP AWAY FROM THE MOWER!

As the sunshine appears along with the first signs of spring, it is always tempting to get the lawn mower out and cut the grass and dig out the weeds to spruce up the garden.

But wait!… don’t be too hasty! Step away from the lawnmower and trowel and let it all grow for a little longer. For those little yellow “weeds” that bejewel our luscious green lawns are far more important than you may think.

‘Dear Earth, If we die out we are taking you all with us.”

The Bees

The humble dandelion is among the first flowers to bloom in the spring. They provide essential nutrition for bees emerging from hibernation over the winter months. While other food sources are so scarce, dandelions can be abundant. Dandelions require very little soil to grow and can grow in all manner of places. While this can be frustrating as a gardener wanting to maintain a perfectly tended garden, it can be great news for bees!

POLLEN & NECTAR

Pollen is a crucial source of protein for the bee larvae, while nectar provides energy to adult bees. Dandelions are rich in both pollen and nectar. The bright yellow and open structure of the flowers attract the bees and make it easier for them to collect what they need. Dandelions are of even greater importance in more urban environments where food may be even more scarce for bees.

It is important that we help bees by providing a diverse range of floral resources to enable them to source the nutrition and energy they need to survive and thrive. Dandelions play an important role in supporting bee populations all year round, but especially when other flowers are scarce.

For me, the dandelion also represents wishes! As the dandelion flowers change to big fluffy seed heads, I love to pick them and blow upon them as I make a wish. Not only do I get my wish released into the universe but I potentially help more dandelions to bloom in the future… for those hungry little bees!

Subscribe to RECEIVE OUR NEWSLETTERS, UPDATES, AND OFFERS.