Whether you’ve got bad memories of stepping on one as a child, or you’re highly allergic, there’s no denying that they serve a purpose. However, they can’t serve that purpose if they’re extinct. Now, some they’re closer than ever to that fate.
What’s to blame? Scientists say pesticides are. A class of pesticides called ‘neonicotinoids’ have shown to possess the ability to leave an imprint on the health of a bee. They travel throughout the roots and veins of a plant, invading its pollen along the way. When bees collect that pollen and make honey from it, and thus consume it, it essentially poisons the entire colony, leading to a phenomenon known as Colony Collapse Disorder.
So what can we do to prevent this? For starters, consider planting a pesticide free garden. There a plenty of non-toxic remedies available for your little garden; this way, you still keep the pests away, but the bees are free to visit, without being poisoned. As far as herbs go, bees love lavender, thyme, white clover, rosemary, and sage. Flowers you can plant include lilies, heather, zinnia, aster, and daisies. Bees also love beans, peas, tomatoes, onions, plums, melons, peppers, and berries.
If you’re a first-timer, never fear, there are pre-potted herbs, flowers, and vegetables available. They’re already prepared for transfer into fresh, clean, pesticide-free soil. So head on to the Garden Section of Walmart, and do it as soon as possible- we may not have a whole lot of time.