The Importance of Organic Flower Bulbs for Bees

Fortunately, in our increasingly urbanizing world, where nature often loses out, awareness is growing about the crucial role bees play in our ecosystem. Bees are not only the invisible heroes of crop pollination, but also the guardians of biodiversity. A simple yet powerful way to support bees is to use organic flowerbulbs in our gardens and public spaces.

More and more municipalities in the Netherlands are choosing to plant organic flowerbulbs in order to help the beekeeping community.

The Meaning of Organic Flowerbulbs

Organic flowerbulbs are grown without the use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers. They are cherished with a deep respect for the environment, making them not only good for the bees, but also for the overall health of our ecosystems. The use of organic flowerbulbs contributes to a sustainable and nature-friendly environment, and this has a positive impact on the entire chain of life.

Flowerbulbs for Bees Throughout the Year

The importance of early floweringbulbs for bees lies in their ability to provide food and vital resources at a crucial time, ensuring bees have a healthy start to the season. Although bees are often more actively foraging for food in early spring after winter, they need nutritional sources throughout the growing season and even into the fall.

Some bee species, such as bumblebees, also need food during the fall as they prepare for winter. Offering flowering bulbs gives bees the opportunity to build up food reserves before the cold months arrive.

Flowerbulbs that welcome bees

1. Snowdrops : Snowdrops are not only ornamental, but also an important source of nectar for bees in early spring when food is scarce.

2. Crocuses : These early bloomers provide bees with valuable food after the long winter months and serve as a cheerful welcome to spring.

3. Botanical Tulips : With their colorful and unique flower shapes, botanical tulips attract attention and provide bees with an abundance of nutritious nectar.

4. Liatris : With their distinctive flower spikes, liatris flowers not only provide visual appeal but also nutritious nectar for bees.

5. Alliums : Members of this family, ranging from onions to ornamental onions, are an attractive choice for bees and add an artistic touch to the garden.

6. Gladiolus : These flowers are a real treat for bees, who love their abundant nectar in the hot summer months.

7. Dahlias : These colorful flowers bloom into late fall and provide bees with a constant source of nutrition, keeping them buzzing around until the very end of fall.

Tips for Planting Organic Flowerbulbs

1. Choose organic flowerbulbs : Buy flowerbulbs from reliable organic nurseries to ensure nature-friendly provenance and support the growth of environmentally conscious practices.

2. Diversity is important: Plant different types of bulbs to provide a continuous source of nutrition throughout the growing season. This not only promotes the health of bees, but also that of other pollinating insects.

3. Natural Pesticides: Avoid using chemical pesticides and opt for natural alternatives to protect the health of bees and other beneficial insects. A healthy ecosystem vibrates with life.

4. Maintain healthy soil: Healthy, fertile soil is essential for the growth of strong and vital flowerbulbs. It provides a solid foundation for a lush flower garden.

5. Water wisely: Water flowerbulbs moderately to prevent mold growth and promote the overall health of the plants. Balanced humidity creates a hospitable environment for bees and other beneficial insects.

By consciously choosing organic flowerbulbs, we can all contribute to the conservation of the bee population and at the same time enjoy beautiful, colorful flower gardens.

What else can I do for bees?

In addition to flowerbulbs, there are also other elements in your garden that can support and attract bees.

1. Perennials and Flowers: In addition to flowerbulbs, you can plant perennials and flower seeds in the garden that bloom during different seasons. Choose a mix of plants with different flowering times to provide a continuous source of food.

2. Herbs and Medicinal Plants: Many herbs and medicinal plants have flowers that attract bees. For example, plant lavender, thyme, rosemary and sage , which not only attract bees but also other beneficial insects.

3. Shrubs and Trees: Certain shrubs and trees provide an abundance of flowers and nectar. Consider planting flowering shrubs such as buddleja (butterfly bush), butterfly bushes and fruit trees.

4. Water sources: Bees also need access to water, especially on hot days. Consider placing shallow containers of water in your garden for bees to drink.

5. Grocery Gardening: Leave a small part of your garden untamed. Wildflowers and weeds can serve as important food sources for bees. This includes dandelions, clovers and other native wildflowers.

6. Nesting sites: Consider creating nesting sites for bees, such as bee hotels. Bees need safe places to nest and lay their eggs.

7. Avoid Pesticides: Avoiding the use of pesticides is essential. These chemicals can be harmful to bees and other pollinating insects.

Beekeepers for bees

The Bloemoloog would also like to refer to the BD Beekeepers website where you can read more about what else you can do for the bees.
Every year we are invited to their BD Beekeeper Day to sell organic flowerbulbs with our sales stand. This year it will take place on February 24.