How does supporting a local Apiary help support the bees? I am glad you asked….
We created this homestead to Support the Bees. We know not everyone can plant a huge garden. And we truly believe that every little bit of support to the natural environment helps. Which is why we not only create and sell cool bee products, we are dedicated to help develop larger native planting areas. Hoping we can inspire you to get involved in ways that work for you and your families.
Not just honey.
These most excellent pollinators are the superpower in the production of our nation’s food crops. They provide the power way beyond just sweet honey. These bees are a critical component to our livelihood.
Since 2006, 30% of honey bee hives in the U.S. have been lost each winter to diseases, parasites, poor nutrition, pesticide exposure and other issues. Honey bees are estimated to pollinate $15 billion worth of pollinated crops in the U.S. This equates to one third of all of our nation’s agriculture output.
Interesting facts:
- Pollinators support biodiversity
- Some crops, including blueberries and cherries, are 90% dependent on honey bee pollination
- 90% of the nation’s apple crop is pollinated by bees
- Honey bees visit five million flowers to make one pint of honey
- To produce 150 lbs of honey, bees cover a distance equal to 13 trips to the moon and back
How can you help?
- Feed the bees, avoid using pesticides in your lawns and gardens
- Plant a variety of flowers (clumps if possible) of all shapes and colors
- Choose plants that flower at different times, native plants will adapt to your environment
- Pollinators need water too, a shallow dish or bird bath half filled with pebbles/stones
- Place a sign in your yard
Please do your part and “bee” friendly to our pollinators. Buy local honey and support a local beekeeper!!
Check out my backyard project at my previous homestead.