In early summer it gradually begins to develop its inflorescences and open its small lip flowers. Bees don't like to miss a visit to the mountain mint and avoid other plants. To what extent is mountain mint valuable for bees?
Is mountain mint valuable for bees?
As a mint family, mountain mint isvery valuable for bees because it provides them with plenty of nectar and pollen over a long period from June to October. In addition, it is also very important for bumblebees, hoverflies and butterflies.
Does mountain mint attract bees?
Bees can perceive the fragrant lip blossoms of mountain mint from adistanceand are almost magically captivated by them. In addition to the scent of the flowers of this mint, it is also their color that attracts bees.
Because of its attraction to bees, it is worth planting mountain mint in the garden or giving it a place on the balcony or terrace in a pot.
Why is mountain mint so interesting for bees?
Since Calamintha nepeta, also known as stone thyme, containspollen and nectar, bees are interested in it.
Bees have a lot to do with the flowers, because the inflorescences consist of numerous small individual flowers that are light blue, light purple or white in color and which are arranged like an army around the stems. Their nectar content is particularly high. The bees therefore view the plant as an important source of food.
Is mountain mint only valuable for bees?
The mountain mint is not only valuable for bees - wild bees and honey bees - butalso other nectar-hungry insectssuch as bumblebees, hoverflies and butterflies are attracted to the mountain mint and recharge their energy reserves like to be there. Last but not least, people also appreciate mountain mint because its leaves and flowers are edible.
How can mountain mint be kept as a bee pasture for a long time?
In order to be able to offer the bees a rich table of nectar and pollen all summer long, it is advisable to cut the stone thyme regularly. The spent inflorescences are simply cut off. New approaches then form and the flowering period can last until October.
In addition to cutting back, it is important to provide this herb with
fertilizerfrom time to time as part of the care, so that it has enough energy for the new flower buds can afford.
Tip
‘Bee Choir’ – a recommended mountain mint for busy bees
Among the mountain mints there is a variety called 'Bee Choir'. Its name already indicates that it is of great value to bees. In fact, it is with its abundance of flowers and their nectar content. So if you're looking for a really good variety, 'Bienenchor' would be a suitable candidate.
