When we started
But last year, we could not find a single bee out there. The only thing we changed that year was that we skipped planting the flowers. This year the plan is to incorporate the flowers back into the fields in addition to purchasing four beehive set-ups. Yesterday, we picked up the hives and other supplies that we will need. The bees are scheduled to arrive in mid-April. I am real excited about them but at the same time a bit hesitant. I am not comfortable with bees or other insects that sting. John is allergic also and has been to the hospital a couple times for insect stings.
So, what do I know about bees? Well, that answer is just about nothing other than they pollinate flowers and fruiting plants. They are a necessity. One thing I learned at the vegetable conference last month was that there are certain plants you can plant that attract the “bad” bugs helping to keep them away from the good ones. So the sunflowers that we planted that year helped to keep the stink bugs and other insects away from our peppers. Sunflowers, buckwheat, and a couple others can be planted in blocks around the field will help lure the bad bugs there and keep them from the peppers. So the plan this year is not only to add the sunflowers back, maybe put in some buckwheat, and to add some flowers in the fields as well. That will naturally help remove some of the insects from the fields and reduce the number of sprays we use, which will help us achieve our organic goals. The flowers will help the bees and that will help our peppers and other