Native Bees in Your Yard Are Doing Important Work

Most gardeners recognize honey bees, but in Washington, there are over 600 species of native bees doing much of the pollination work in our landscapes. In this conversation, Anne Bulger, a WSU Master Gardener, discusses the significance of native bees in gardening and pollination. She shares her journey into the world of native bees, emphasizing their efficiency as pollinators compared to honey bees. The discussion covers common misconceptions about native bees, the importance of supporting them in gardens, and the diversity of bee species, particularly mining bees. Anne also highlights the role of native bees in maintaining healthy ecosystems and offers practical advice for gardeners to create bee-friendly habitats. Resources mentioned in this episode, along with a full transcript, can be found on our website.