20-05-2025
Simple step gardeners can take to help bees thrive in warm weather this summer
As World Bee Day is here, we take a look at some of the ways you can help save the bees as their numbers decline - and what to do if you spot one laying on the ground
Habitat disruption is believed to be the biggest reason for a decline in bees - but there are ways you can help. Bees play a crucial role in pollinating trees and flowers, and keep an overall healthy eco system, so it's important we try and keep them around.
The World Wildlife Foundation has warned that bumblebee numbers are falling at an alarming rate due to habitat loss caused by pesticides, pollution, and, of course, climate change. The hot weather can also be an issue for the bees, so in honour of World Bee Day today, here are some ways you can help keep the buzzing bees happy this summer.
Paul De Ornellas, WWF's Chief Adviser for Wildlife, shared his affection for the fuzzy pollinators: "Bumblebees are crucial for pollinating crops, fruits, and plants, and they always make me smile when I see them. They're vital for maintaining a healthy environment and for our food production."
Gardeners have been urged to leave a tray of water in their gardens to help bumblebees cope with the harsh weather conditions. De Ornellas said: "As temperatures rise, bumblebees are moving north to look for more suitable environments, but sadly some species could find themselves with nowhere left to go."
"Bumblebees also have a furry coat and much prefer cooler climates as they can easily overheat and become unable to fly or forage. They also struggle in times of extreme heat as the flowers providing them with nectar and pollen may start wilting and drying."
In order to do your bit, the expert recommends planting flowery plants in shady areas to help keep the bees out of the sun. He also urged people to transport "sleepy" bees laying in the sun on the pavement or windowsill to a flower in a shady area if safe to do so.
De Ornellas also advised creating a bee-friendly water station and said: "Provide a shallow tray of water, with pebbles, branches or bark above the water level for bees to rest on as they drink."
The WWF also urge people to "step away from the sprays" and avoid using weedkillers and pesticides where possible - even the ones that claim to be "bee friendly". The experts shared: "These chemicals harm bees by poisoning them and impacting their breathing.
"By interfering with their fertility and brain functions, causing them to become confused, meaning they may put themselves in danger, may not be able to forage, or stop bringing food back to their nests."
If you need to remove something from your garden, try and do it by hand, or even use a natural solution such as a vinegar mix with water and apply to the root. "By creating a vibrant garden, or outdoor space, that's full of a diversity of plants, you attract a variety of insects and birds, and over time this will keep pests naturally under control."
