Buzzing parks and gardens

Vital Habitats

Gardens are vital habitats for bees and other pollinators. Create a haven for these essential insects by including some ‘bee and butterfly bulbs’ in your planting.

There’s so much that can be done in a garden or public green space to help. More flowers and wild spaces in urban areas are not only good for bees, but also for people – with a proven positive effect on people’s mental and physical health.

There are lots of ways you can create bee-friendly habitats in a garden or public green space.

Spring flowering bulbs, such as crocus and allium, offer nectar to bumblebees early in the season and are easy to grow. Herbs like lavender, thyme and rosemary are also low-maintenance plants that are loved by bees as well as butterflies.

A Flowering Spring Begins In Autumn

Spring-flowering bulbs should be planted in September and October, as the soil is still warm and the bulbs can develop roots and become established before becoming dormant in winter. Tulip bulbs prefer being planted in November to prevent the fungal disease tulip fire. However, in general, you can usually plant spring bulbs as late as December without any problems. You can plant them directly into borders and pots. They generally need sun or partial shade and free-draining soil, so if the soil is very heavy, incorporate some horticultural grit when planting.