Bees play a crucial role in the balance of our ecosystem, particularly in the pollination of plants, which directly affects our food supply. With the decline in bee populations globally due to various reasons, it’s essential to support them by creating bee-friendly environments. One of the ways to do this is by planting melliferous shrubs, which provide them with nectar and pollen. Here are ten shrubs that can help you assist and attract bees to your garden:

1) Buddleia (Butterfly Bush)

• Description: Known for its long and fragrant flower spikes, Buddleia attracts not just bees but also butterflies.
• Additional Information: It’s essential to prune it regularly to encourage more blooms and prevent it from becoming invasive.

2) Lavender

• Description: Lavender offers a soothing fragrance that appeals to both humans and bees. Its purple flowers are rich in nectar.
• Additional Information: Lavender prefers well-draining soil and full sun. It also has therapeutic properties and can be used for various homemade remedies.

3) Berberis

• Description: This thorny shrub flowers in early spring, providing an early source of nectar for bees.
• Additional Information: Besides supporting bees, its berries attract birds, and its thorns provide a natural barrier against pests.

4) Spiraea

• Description: Also known as meadowsweet, its clusters of white or pink flowers are a magnet for bees during summer.
• Additional Information: Spiraea is easy to grow and can thrive in various soil conditions.

5) Ceanothus (California Lilac)

• Description: This shrub boasts blue or white flowers that are particularly enticing to bees.
• Additional Information: Ceanothus is drought-tolerant, making it suitable for gardens in drier climates.

6) Cotoneaster

• Description: With its small, dense flowers, Cotoneaster provides bees with plenty of nectar during its blooming season.
• Additional Information: In addition to being a bee magnet, it also offers bright berries in the fall, attracting birds.

7) Heather

• Description: Blooming in winter and early spring, heather offers nectar when many other plants are dormant.
• Additional Information: Heather prefers acidic soil, so it’s best suited for gardens with such conditions.

8) Mahonia

• Description: This winter-flowering shrub offers bright yellow flowers that are rich in nectar.
• Additional Information: Its spiky leaves also provide a protective habitat for small creatures.

9) Rosemary

• Description: Not only is rosemary a flavorful herb for cooking, but its blue flowers are also a favorite among bees.
• Additional Information: Rosemary is a perennial shrub, ensuring a year-round presence in your garden.

10) Forsythia

• Description: Its bright yellow flowers bloom in early spring, offering bees one of their first nectar sources of the year.
• Additional Information: Forsythia is fast-growing and can also act as a natural fence or barrier.

Why Supporting Bees is Vital:

Bees are responsible for the pollination of a significant portion of the world’s food crops. Supporting their populations not only ensures their survival but also safeguards our food supply chain. By planting these and other bee-friendly plants, we contribute to healthier and more sustainable ecosystems.

Tips for a Bee-Friendly Garden:

• Avoid Pesticides: Chemicals can harm bees. Use natural remedies for pest control.
• Provide Fresh Water: A shallow dish of water with stones for bees to land on is a great addition.
• Diversify Your Planting: The more variety, the better. This ensures that something is always in bloom, providing bees with a consistent food source.

Remember, every plant counts. By choosing melliferous shrubs and plants, you’re taking a step toward a more bee-friendly world.