Harmful Nesting Materials: What to Avoid (and What to Use Instead)

Backyard “#BeeHotels” are everywhere. It’s wonderful that people care and want wild bees to thrive. When we invite bees into our backyards, we become responsible for providing safe shelter. Some common nesting materials, though well intentioned, can harm wild bees. These include materials that trap moisture, harbor pests, or cannot be cleaned.

With thoughtful, simple choices, we can give bees the safe shelter they need. The outer bee house design matters less than the nesting materials inside.

If you started with what was easiest to find, you’re not alone. This guide shows how small changes can make a big difference for bee health."

Learn more:
https://crownbees.com/pages/harmful-bee-nesting-materials

#WorldBeeDay #BeeHouses #BeeNests #BeeHealth

Well rats, Two of the squash plants have succumbed to squash mildew. Luckily, two of the plants are doing well, and two are iffy -- and I have about 6 more ready to plant. Focused on the #BumblebeeNest today. I put together one [of two] but I'll finish digging the hole tomorrow.

I had some mouse pee-soaked cardboard that I added to the nesting material. The original hose I wanted to use seemed too small, but it was to spec, so maybe I'll use that one instead. Building the "nest" out of chicken wire was interesting. My hand is a bit sore from all the wire cutting.

Edit: I think I'll go with the smaller tubing. This seems like it would attract mice...

#GardeningForPollinators #SolarPunkSunday #Bumblebees #BeeNests #BeeHouses

HT @afewbugs ! 🐝

UK - How to make a bumblebee nest

BBC Gardeners' World Magazine
Monday, 8 July 2019

"Find out how to help bumblebees by creating a simple nest for these important pollinators."

https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/diy/how-to-make-a-bumblebee-nest/

#SolarPunkSunday #Bumblebees #BeeNests #Pollinators #BumblebeeNests #Bees #DIY