BumblebeeConservationTrust

At Flying Flowers, we were proud to announce our support for the Bumblebee Conservation Trust at the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show. As avid advocates for environmental conservation, we were thrilled to collaborate with the Trust to raise awareness for bumblebee conservation. Together, we created a buzz at Chelsea Flower Show and beyond, highlighting the importance of protecting these vital pollinators.

The ‘Diversity is Queen’ exhibit increased understanding of the value of diversity in nature, through bumblebees. Split into four zones—garden, machair, moorland, and species-rich grasslands—their exhibit showcased a variety of bumblebee-friendly habitats that supported some of our most common and scarcest species.

Moorlands, often featuring heather and bilberry, provide a habitat for the scarce Bilberry bumblebee. Low-lying coastal grassland, found along the shores of northern Scotland, provide a vital refuge for the Yellow Bumblebee. In the heart of ancient woodlands, where dappled sunlight filters through the canopy of oak and beech trees, the Tree Bumblebee finds its sanctuary. These varied habitats highlight the importance of conservation efforts to protect the environments crucial for bumblebee survival.

A thyme lawn not only adds aromatic charm to a garden but also serves as a nesting site for bumblebees. Its dense, low-growing foliage offers shelter and protection for these important pollinators, providing a safe haven for them to establish their colonies. The delicate purple blooms of thyme, rich in nectar, attract bumblebees seeking food, making it a mutually beneficial relationship. Incorporating a thyme lawn into landscaping not only enhances the beauty of outdoor spaces but also contributes to the conservation of bumblebee populations.

In the UK, bumblebees played a crucial role in pollinating tomatoes, making them essential for tomato production. Without bumblebees, the process of pollination for tomatoes would have been compromised, potentially leading to reduced yields. The Bumblebee Conservation Trust had a sign that explained how bumblebees uniquely performed buzz pollination. Bumblebees are able to clamp down on the anther and vibrate their flight muscles at the exact frequency require to create a bee-covering explosion of pollen grains from the tip of the anther.

Maintaining a garden with a diversity of flowers is crucial for providing a habitat for bumblebees throughout the year. By planting a variety of flowering plants that bloom at different times, gardeners can ensure a continuous source of nectar and pollen, supporting bumblebee populations from early spring to late autumn. Early-flowering bulbs like crocuses and snowdrops provide essential food for bumblebees emerging from hibernation, while summer favorites such as lavender, foxgloves, and roses sustain them during the peak of the season.