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If you have a greenhouse, pollination can be a struggle. After all, 1/3 of the food we eat is dependent on pollinators, and without them, you'll be pollinating your greenhouse plants by hand with a paintbrush. So, it's no wonder that many of our bee raisers ask us if they can raise mason and leafcutter bees in greenhouses, high tunnels, and hoop houses.Bumble bees have historically been the bee of choice for many mid to large size greenhouse growers. However, recent research suggests that cavity …

As you may have noticed, much of the country has been experiencing an abnormally long, cool, and wet spring, which has led to a reduction in the number of completed, capped nesting cavities by mason bees.Mason bees are hearty insects that will fly in cooler temperatures and even drizzle. Still, extended periods of temps in the 40s and continuous rain will keep even the most determined mason bees from flying. If that wasn't enough, this year's weather has led to a phenological mismatch. Phenology …

Each month our Bee Informed Blog highlights current news, science, and research related to solitary bee conservation, food insecurity, and sustainability.1. What genetic sequencing can reveal about the secret lives of bees(pbs.org) Bees are, in many ways, the darlings of the insect world. Not only do they play a crucial role in thriving ecosystems, but they’re also harbingers of the worsening consequences of climate change.To bolster our knowledge of bee biology and behavior, a new effort dubbed …

Each month our Bee Informed Blog highlights current news, science, and research related to solitary bee conservation, food insecurity, and sustainability.1. What you need to know about No-Mow May, the bee-boosting trend sweeping Wisconsin — and the country(wpr.org) Two years ago, Appleton became the first city in the U.S. to adopt "No-Mow May," an initiative designed to boost the population of bees and other pollinators. The idea is to give homeowners the option of letting their lawns get a bit …

Pollinators are not just fascinating animals. They perform an essential ecological function, and without them, we (and the rest of the terrestrial world) would not survive. Climate change, habitat destruction, and the ubiquitous use of pesticides, among others, are harming pollinators— and people.Earth day has been around since the '70s, but it has never been more critical than it is today! Please join us in utilizing these resources to celebrate and make a positive impact this Earth Day (April …