It is now known that the death of bees is becoming increasingly devastating. That's why it's even more important to offer these pollinators many plants whose flowers provide the bees with a large amount of food. Is the crocus part of it?
Are crocuses an important food source for bees?
Crocuses are important to bees as they provide an early and essential source of food. They provide pollen and nectar and particularly support colonizing insect species in building and maintaining their populations. Wild crocuses are particularly bee-friendly.
Are crocuses important for bees?
Crocuses represent animportant food source for bees. They offer these insects a rich supply of pollen, but also nectar. In addition, bumblebees and some butterflies also like to feast on the crocus flowers, which bloom in February. The particular value lies in the fact that crocuses bloom early. They bloom when there are hardly any other food sources for bees.
It's not for nothing that these early bloomers, like snowdrops, squills and March cups, are protected.
How to create a bee pasture with crocuses?
You can plant an entiremeadow with crocuses by sticking numerous tubers into the ground in autumn. It is advisable to choose bee-friendly species such as wild crocuses for planting in the crocus meadow, as these usually have a richer supply of pollen and nectar than garden crocuses. You can also supplement the bee pasture with other early bloomers such as star hyacinth, coneflower, snowdrop and daffodil.
What should you consider when growing crocuses for bees?
If crocuses aremowed down, the tubers lack the strength to develop new leaves and produce flowers. That's why it's important not to damage crocuses when mowing the lawn. The tragedy is especially great when you have planted an entire crocus meadow and carelessly mow it down.
The crocuses do not need any special care during the rest of the year. They usually grow without regular fertilization and watering.
Are autumn crocuses also interesting for bees?
The autumn crocuses are alsointeresting and valuable for bees. They bloom in the fall between October and November, making them one of the last flowering plants of the year. Here the bees can once again meet their food needs and replenish supplies.
Why are crocuses essential for colonizing insect species?
Colony-forming species such as wild bees, honey bees and bumblebees benefit enormously from the crocuses, because with the help of their pollen and nectar they can build theirpopulationand at the same timelifeobtained when food supplies are low.
Tip
Plant wild crocuses and a crocus carpet will appear by itself
Wild crocuses are particularly beneficial. Once planted, they multiply rapidly in the right location. This results in an ever larger bee pasture over the years.
