Landscaping for Missouri’s Native Bees
The benefit bees provide pollinating our food crops is well known but these keystone species also increase biodiversity and are a part of complex food webs. A little more than half of known bee species are described, and bees are declining worldwide. Considering their importance for food production and ecosystem function it is imperative that this disturbing trend be reversed. Studies have shown that even small-scale landscaping for native bees, such as yards, vacant lots in cities, and rooftop gardens can make a difference in bee diversity and abundance. Missouri has approximately 452 bee species that are vary in their flower preferences, nesting needs, activity periods, and appearance. Native garden beds can be planted, in sun and shade, inexpensively to provide a beautiful view in every season and food, shelter, and nesting sites for a myriad of native bee species.