BLEND 2022 Edition 6 | Page 12

We as humans need bees very much . They are not only suitable for food production , but they also play a role in the economy . “ Bees stimulate food production through pollination ( Pollination is the transfer of pollen grains from the stamens of one flower to the pistil of another flower ). Without pollination , the food industry and flower industry would struggle . Flowers create happiness . Happiness is a huge economic factor that generates a lot of money in the world economy .” explains Peter . All bees and other insects are important in this process . All these insects are co-dependent and live harmoniously .
There are about 358 different bees in the Netherlands . They can be placed in two categories : solitary bees and honeybees . Almost all bees are solitary . The solitary bee has a habitat of 50 meters and is entirely self-sufficient ( they produce their food ). Honeybees need each other to live . This is specifically related to the honeybee . These bees live together with a queen . The queen bee ’ s only role is to provide new bees for the colony . All the other bees provide food and pollination . When the queen dies , the bees make sure there is a new queen based on the last fertilized egg . A colony of bees cannot exist without a queen . The queen creates peace in the hive . Bees communicate through pheromones ( scents ), but the queen creates her unique scent . This is the specific scent of the hive . Each hive has its scent thanks to the queen to keep out bees from other colonies .
Biodiversity :
Biodiversity means diversity . It ensures that different living organisms keep each other in balance . To understand biodiversity , you must understand the purpose of each organism in an environment and how they work together harmoniously . Certain plants , leaves , or roots are suitable for the soil and strengthen the soil . There are also trees ( like a chestnut tree ) that provide food for the soil . Together they create a balance and give each other food . All living organisms that work together keep the soil and each other healthy .
Top 5 best flowers for bees :
Nepeta
Tetradium
“ All insects are threatened with extinction . Solitary bees are especially vulnerable . We , as humans , can ensure that there is enough food available for the bees .,” Peter explains . It is less complicated for honeybees as beekeepers can continue to support them . Both Honeybees and solitary bees are often short of food .
Tips from Peter to enhance biodiversity : - Natural landscaping , woodchip , or dirt paths , the soils contain nutrients for all insects . - With a pallet , you can place plants on balconies or gardens . This will strengthen nature around as it provides more food for its inhabitants . Herbs and flowers are ideal for this . - See if you can remove a tile from your garden for more plants . - Sow indigenous and organic seeds . They are a little more expensive but do much more for nature and bees . - Make sure you have flowers in all seasons that provide food for bees . This is important for all insects .
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Lavender
Phlomis
Sophora
Do you want to contribute to the biodiversity in your environment ? Then participate in our biodiversity contest . Share how you make your environment friendlier for the insects in nature and win a Giftbox of Blossombs !
To participate in the contest Text “ Sustainability ” with your submission to + 316 76 533 2323
Contact : peter @ sterkebij . nl More information : www . sterkebij . nl