How can we help the Honey Bees?
Many of you are aware of the decline and the demise of our Honey Bees. I'm sure you've seen reports by the media of CCD (Colony Collapse Disorder) and how thousands of honey bee colonies are being lost because of it. For more information on this subject and to watch the video click on Vanishing of the Bees Honey bees are of great value to nature and mankind, the majority of plants depend on the animal kingdom for pollination.
About one-third of our total human diet is derived directly or indirectly from insect pollinated plants of which 80% is accomplished by Honey Bees!
Click on "Garden Tips-attracting bees" providedy by: Haugen-Dazs loves Honey Bees. For more information go to Pollinator friendly gardening, provided by Penn State Master Gardeners
Here are some suggestions on how you can help
First support local beekeepers by purchasing local Honey. Support local agriculture instead of products brought in from foreign countries. See Honey Laundering on our Home page. Curb you use of dangerous pesticides and herbicides. If you feel you must control some pesty insects in your lawn and garden practice Integrated Pest Management (IPM). Educate yourself on the toxicity levels of the chemicals you are using in and around your home. Always follow directions on the label when mixing!Many of these harsh chemicals can be potentially toxic to the environment including yourself, your children and your family pets. Look at life on this earth as NOT the perfect lawn, free of so-called weeds, but a balance of plants, animals & humans living together in a symbiotic relationship.
You may want to start your own beehive! It really is quite easy. For more information on keeping bees contact our local group the:
Lehigh Valley Beekeepers. For info on planting a "Bee-friendly" garden. You will not only attract honey bees but more species of butterflies. Below is a list of of Bee-friendly plants to accent your flowerbeds and landscaping.