World Bee Day is this week, which feels like a good excuse to stop for a minute and think about the little bees. Not in a big way, I must now grow a meadow way but in a small, everyday way. Bees are getting on with a very important job and most of us are just getting on with our day without really noticing them. Being a bit kinder to bees doesn’t mean becoming a gardener, buying fancy seeds or suddenly knowing what you’re doing outside. It’s mostly about tiny changes, a bit of awareness and letting nature exist. Here are some simple ways to help the little creatures out!
Let things be a bit scruffy!
You know that tiny patch of grass or weeds that you keep meaning to sort out? Leave it! Dandelions, clover, daisies and all those things we’re taught to see as messy are bee cafes. Early spring, especially when there’s not much else about, those little yellow dandelions are like flashing neon signs saying food here. You don’t need a wild garden. You just need not to panic when something grows where you didn’t plan it.
Put water out!
This one is so simple. Bees need water. Not a deep bird bath where they’ll drown, just something shallow. A saucer, an old lid or a plant pot tray. Put some pebbles or stones in whatever you are using so the bees have got somewhere to land, add a bit of water and you’re done. You’ve just created a bee pit stop with about 30 seconds of effort, just keep topping it up with water.
Skip the chemicals!
We’re sold so many sprays for gardens. For patios, weeds, ants, moss and anything that exists outside. A lot of them are tough on bees. If you don’t need to use it, don’t!! Weeds in random places are not hurting anyone and a few bugs on plants is just nature doing its own thing. Less spraying creates a safer space for bees.
Support bee-friendly brands where you can!
It’s one of those little swaps that doesn’t feel like much but really does help. Grab your honey from local sellers, pick brands that look after pollinators or even stick a few quid towards a bee charity if you can. It all adds up more than you’d think.
Don’t panic if a bee looks a bit worn out!
They do this thing where they just run out of steam or get a bit chilly and end up sat still looking like they’re on their last legs. Most of the time they’re fine, just having a rest. If you want to help, a tiny drop of sugar water nearby (not honey) can give them a boost.
Don't panic if they come inside!
They’re not exactly thrilled to be inside either. The easiest way to help them out is turn the lights off, open the window and blinds and give them a minute. They’ll usually figure it out without any drama. There is no need to chase them around.
Talk about bees like they matter!
Especially with kids. Instead of making bees seem scary, just chat about what they do and why they matter. Point them out when you’re out and about, mention little facts here and there. The more normal it is to respect them, the better.
Being kinder to bees isn’t some big lifestyle change. It’s just noticing them, making a few small changes here and there and letting them get on with their thing without interfering all the time.
