Planting Native Trees for the bees

Spring time for bees

As spring arrives in the Southern Hemisphere, it's an exciting time for both our bees and beekeepers. This season marks the beginning of a new cycle as beekeepers prepare their hives for a productive and healthy period ahead. The bees are already buzzing with activity, taking full advantage of the thousands of mānuka flowers that are now in bloom. They’re tirelessly collecting nectar and pollen, and with each flower they visit, they’re also rallying their fellow bees to join in the foraging effort.

One of the most beautiful aspects of early spring is the sight of these dedicated pollinators at work. If you take a moment to look around, you might notice the vibrant blooms and hear the gentle buzzing of bees. Early spring is a critical time for these pollinators, as they often face a shortage of nectar after the winter months. By this time, much of their stored food has been consumed, and fresh nectar sources are limited.

Planting Native for fresh nectar sources

One of the best ways to support our bees and other pollinators is by planting native and flowering trees. These trees can be a vital food source during early spring when nectar is scarce. By incorporating trees like Rata, Kowhai, Kaka beak, and Rewarewa into your garden or community space, you’re providing essential nourishment for bees and leaving a lasting legacy for these important creatures.

Diversity is key

Interestingly, research conducted on the South Island has revealed that honeybees and native bees may not compete as much as previously thought. This is due to their unique tongue lengths and plant preferences, which means they often feed on different types of flowers. This finding underscores the importance of planting a diverse range of flowering plants to support all types of pollinators.

Small can still be helpful!

If space is limited, don’t worry—starting with culinary herbs such as rosemary, thyme, lavender, and sage can also make a significant difference. Bees are particularly attracted to blue and purple blooms like borage, echium, and passionfruit. By planting a variety of these plants, you’ll create a welcoming environment for both honeybees and native wild pollinators.

Support your local bees

Early spring is an opportune moment to enhance pollinator health by adding native and flowering trees to your landscape. Supporting both honeybees and native bees ensures that we maintain a vibrant and thriving ecosystem.