Gardening expert Monty Don has advised homeowners to introduce three specific plants to their gardens immediately to help support bee populations. The long-serving host of BBC's Gardeners' World highlighted the importance of providing pollen and nectar sources for bees, whose numbers have been declining due to factors such as the varroa mite and chemical pesticides.
In the latest issue of BBC Gardeners' World Magazine, Don wrote: “By planting a good selection of pollen-rich flowers, we gardeners can help to halt their decline and mitigate the depredations of agriculture.” He emphasised that a plant's origin matters less than its accessibility and nutritional value, though bees show a preference for native species.
The three plants recommended by Don are dandelions, hawthorn, and willow. He also urged gardeners to provide a sequential supply of flowers from early spring to late autumn, include flowering shrubs and trees for shelter, and leave sunny areas open with nectar-rich blooms.
Don concluded with a stark warning against using pesticides, which he described as “absolutely devastating” to local bee populations. The advice comes as the US Department of Agriculture reports that 75% of flowering plants depend on pollinators like bees.
