Orange Blossom Beekeepers WikiBee

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====== Tips for Planting for Pollinators =======

  - **Plant same/similar species in large groups.**  Although I have personally witnessed bees visit more than one type of flower on a single trip, they prefer to practice "floral constancy."  This means clusters of similar flowers will be more appealing.  Basic recommendations are that lots should be approx. 3.5 ft x 3.5 ft or row equivalent.
  - **Plant trees.**  Trees are popular sources of pollinator food sources because of the floral constancy theory.  Even trees that are not known for their flowers, such as palms and maples, are important pollen and nectar sources.
  - **Allow palms to bloom.**  Some people do not think that the scraggly flowers of some palm trees are attractive and so will discourage trees from flowering by removing the stalks.  But palms are important pollen and nectar sources.  You can cut the stalks once the blossoms are spent and they berries are starting to form.  But if the flowers are left to open you will find your tree literally "abuzz" with several species of native bees as well as honeybees. 
  - **Plant native species when possible.**  Some native pollinators will not be able to utilize exotic specimens. Some nonnative plants can also become invasive pests.
  - **Consider bloom schedules.**  Try to coordinate your garden so that you have some plants in bloom at any given time of year.  Some times of the year are more challenging for pollinators than others.  Planning for year round blooms helps negate some of the dearth severity.
  - **Be observant.**  Watch nature and she will inspire and guide you.  Pay attention to landscaping at places you visit and look for pollinating activity.  I personally, will wander around the garden section of home improvement stores and take note of which flowers and plants are receiving the most attention from the bees and bring some of those home with me.

Orange Blossom Beekeepers WikiBee

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