The Bees: A Dying Population Needs Your Help
The bee population is declining at a rapid rate. A Cornell University Study estimates the bee population pollinates $14 billion worth of seeds and crops - without bees our agriculture will suffer. Gardeners can help with these tips.
PHILADELPHIA, PA, April 28, 2014
There is a lot of buzz about the bee population and its rapid decline, and rightfully so. The bee is an integral part of our gardening and agricultural community, and one that we should commit ourselves to helping.In this recent article in the online magazine, "Love Your Yard," {http://www.avantgardendecor.com/love-your-yard-magazine}, the situation of bee colonies was evaluated and tips are given here to help those interested in aiding the bee crisis.
Bees have a huge and extremely vital job in our planet - pollination. Pollination is the process in which pollen is transferred from the anther (male portion of the plant) to the stigma (the female portion of the plant). Some plants are able to self-pollinate while other plants need pollen to transfer between different flowers or different individuals of the plant; this is known as cross-pollination.
Generally plants are pollinated through the use of wind, animals, or insects, such as the bee. Bees aid in the process of cross-pollination and are so effective that the U.S. Department of Agriculture credits them with pollinating 80% of our flowering crops, which round up a third of everything we eat.
How much is that worth? A Cornell study estimates the bee population pollinates $14 billion worth of seeds and crops. Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) is a phenomenon in which worker bees from a beehive colony abruptly disappear. Although the reason and its rapid growth remain unclear, scientists have identified a link between pesticides and causation of CCD. The use of organic pest control is encouraged to help combat the effects of CCD.How do we manage this situation? Better communication to the public and the agricultural community is crucial in making sure that education is offered on the proper practices used to keep bees thriving.
Using organic substances, like Safer Brand products, rather than chemicals, is also a step in the right direction. http://www.avantgardendecor.com/search?search=Safer+Brand]
Gardeners can provide plenty of food for bees by planting their gardens with them in mind. Additionally, featuring water in your garden can provide a clean and safe source of hydration for them.
Together, we can all take steps to help the bee population, and the overall success of agriculture.
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