Selecting and planting trees specifically to support bees is an excellent way to strengthen the local ecosystem. Bees play an essential—if not decisive—role in pollinating plants, including our most important food crops. Without them, our food supply would be at risk. Unfortunately, bee populations are in decline due to various factors, including habitat loss from climate change and the use of pesticides. Planting trees is one way to help. Trees provide bees with both food and shelter.
Trees benefit insects in several ways. They supply nectar and pollen, helping bees survive and reproduce. They also provide shelter and nesting opportunities. Many bee species, especially wild ones, nest in hollow trees, while some even build their nests in the branches and leaves of specific tree species.
The Power of Diversity
When planting trees for bees, it’s important to choose species well adapted to the local climate and soil. Many valuable nectar and pollen sources can be found in the rose family (Rosaceae), which provide food for both native and non-native insects. But nutrition isn’t the only factor. For reproduction, most native insects depend on specific host plants on which to lay their eggs. For example, the non-native northern red oak (Quercus rubra) supports only a handful of insect species, while the native pedunculate oak (Quercus robur) supports ten times as many. By planting both native and non-native species together, you can accommodate insects that thrive on both.
When it comes to nutrition, a non-native willow provides just as much nectar and pollen as a native one. However, some cultivated plants with double flowers offer little or no nectar and pollen. In double-flowering varieties, stamens are often transformed into extra petals, leaving few nectar glands and anthers. Even though these plants may bloom longer, they provide no real food source for insects.
Popular Trees for Bees
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Fruit trees (Malus, Pyrus, Prunus): Many fruit trees, such as apple, cherry, and peach, offer abundant nectar and pollen over a long period.
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Willows (Salix): A favorite for bees, providing an early source of nectar and pollen in spring.
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Lindens (Tilia): Famous for their fragrant blossoms, highly attractive to numerous bee species.
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Oaks (Quercus): Long-lived trees that offer shelter and nesting sites for bees.
When planting trees specifically for bees, it’s essential to consider both location and spacing. Bees need a variety of tree species and sizes to find food and shelter. Planting trees in clusters creates microhabitats especially attractive to bees. Choose species with different flowering periods to ensure a continuous supply of blossoms. In conclusion, planting trees for bees is a simple yet highly effective way to support these vital insects. By selecting the right tree species and planting them in the right places, you can create a strong habitat for bees.
Additional Support
Beyond planting trees, there are other simple ways to help bee populations—such as providing water. Insects need to drink too, so place a water source like a birdbath, shallow dish, or small pond. Also, don’t mow in May: wildflowers are an essential food source for bees. Species such as clovers, dandelions, and cuckooflowers are particularly useful—and sometimes necessary. Lawns are richer in flowers than we realize, with daisies and other blooms appearing very early in the year. Mowing later or at a higher setting is a quick win if you want to make a difference for bees.
