Gardeners urged to grow more plants that bloom in winter to help bees

Gardeners were urged yesterday by the government of the UK to plant more flowers that bloom in winter to help protect our bees.
Planting flowers, shrubs and trees that thrive in winter will help the insects survive the coldest part of the year. Lord Gardiner, Defra's Minister for Rural Affairs and Biosecurity said planting winter blooming flowers will 'keep our pollinators happy and healthy all year round.

'Whether you have access to acres of land or just a window box, everyone can play a part in helping these vital insects thrive.' Calling for everyone to take action to help bees and pollinators over the winter, Lord Gardiner said: 'Bees are a much-loved feature of English summertime and crucial contributors to our biodiversity and our economy.

'But it is important not to forget bees' needs during the winter months too, when providing food and a home are more important than ever.

'Planting evergreens for winter food and leaving areas of gardens undisturbed through the winter to provide homes mean we can all help pollinators emerge safely in the spring.' A good winter flowering plant for bees is the evergreen mahonia, as is winter flowering clematis.