How We Can Stop Bees Dying in Atlantic Canada

Many people are aware of the global decline in bee population, although not of the very serious impact on the environment (and even our own survival). Due to colony collapse disorder (CCD), many bees leave their hives only to never come home. While there are many possible causes of the disappearance, from the use of neonicotinoid insecticide to mites, scientists still can’t find one definite main factor. To help honey bees thrive in your own backyard to help bring populations back up, here are 6 simple things you can do: 1. Avoid using commercial pesticides, fertilizers, and herbicides. The use of insecticide has contributed to the problem of dying bees (and to health problems in humans and other animals as well). While there is much debate about how much its use affects the bee population, there are still plenty of benefits to enjoy by not using products containing insecticides. Whenever possible, look for organic ways to encourage your garden to flourish. 2. Let your lawn overgrow now and again. Bees love visiting clovers and dandelions. While your lawn may be unsightly for a while, just think about how much good you’ll be doing for any busy bees in your area. Since honey bees travel nearly 5 kilometres from their hives to harvest, you’ll help make their trip to your yard well worth the effort. 3. Plant bee-friendly flowers. If you want to breathe some life into your yard and help honey bees, you can do some landscaping. You don’t even have to do anything too difficult – just buying some pots of flowers for your deck or placing them along...