From conventional basil, which can not only be cultivated outdoors but also grown on the windowsill, bush basil differs significantly in its size. The permanent bloomer is also significantly more robust. There is hardly any other plant in the garden that bees prefer to fly to.
Is bush basil suitable for attracting bees?
The edible bush basil isvery suitablefor attracting bees. The attractant is thescent of the flowers, which attracts beneficial insects in droves.
Why is bush basil so attractive to bees?
Shrub basil, which is also known as African basil (a popular variety in Germany is African Blue), is so attractive to bees because the strongly scented and edible flowerslots of pollen and contain plenty of nectar. Because the plant grows very quickly in the summer months, it quickly becomes a beautifulbee pasture in the garden during the flowering period from June to September.
Why is growing basil important for species conservation?
Thanks to its countless flowers, bush basil is an enrichment for every garden. The attracted bees are beneficial asimportant for biodiversityIf insects such as honey bees no longer find food, the species is threatened with extinction. Providing food is therefore an important contribution to species protection. Tip: Bush basil can also be grown in city apartments and attract many bees. Smaller specimens are best kept in balcony boxes, but just like their relatives in the garden, they need to be watered and fertilized regularly and adequately
Does basil in the garden also attract other insects?
If bush basil is planted in a bed or in a large pot, it will attract not onlyhoneybeesbut alsowild beesandbumblebeesattracted. Butterflies also frolic among the fragrant flowers of the non-hardy shrub basil, which is better brought indoors for overwintering when the temperature is permanently below 15 °C. Alternatively, the plant can overwinter in the greenhouse.
What needs to be taken into account so that bush basil attracts bees?
Only plants that feel comfortable in their location thrive so well that they produce enough flowers to attract bees and other insects. When planting shrub basil, pay attention to:
- Awarm and sunny Location
- Regular, usually dailyWatering (always water basil from below)
- Nutritious soil
- Fertilize if necessary
Is bush basil helpful for an insect hotel?
Shrub basil isvery helpful for attracting bees near an insect hotel. In this way, the extinction of insects that are important for flora and fauna can be prevented and biodiversity is ensured.
Tip
Using basil flowers in the kitchen
For most recipes such as pesto or insalata caprese, only the delicate leaves of the basil are used. However, you don't have to throw away the basil flowers and, contrary to popular belief, they are not poisonous either. They can be used for colorful salads as well as to decorate and season dishes. The aroma is reminiscent of basil.
