Helping bees in Decatur doesn’t necessarily mean becoming a beekeeper. There are
many things city homeowners can do to help our native bees thrive. All bee species
require flowering plants to survive. Some great backyard choices include Blackeyed
Susan, Coneflower, Cosmos, Lantana, Coreopsis and Sedum.
Like all animals, bees also require water. Since bees can easily drown, place pebbles or
rocks in a small dish of water to provide a place for them to stand while they drink. Limit
or avoid the use of insecticides and herbicides. Keep some portion of your property
undisturbed, leaving areas of bare ground and fallen logs for native solitary bee species
like Mining Bees and Mason Bees.
Photo credit: Angela Wynne