Introduction
Effective pollination is essential for the continuation of plant species and consequently for the production of crops. A wide range of insects contribute to this process and it has been estimated that their action contributes £630m to the UK economy. Honey Bees alone are responsible for around 10 percent of this sum.
Unfortunately modern agricultural methods are having a severe effect on the populations of bees, butterflies and many other insects. All are in decline with some being endagered. We are literally biting the hand that feeds us!.
In the allotment, however, there is the opportunity to do things differently and provide an attractive environment for both ourselves and our partners in nature.
Pollinators
Arguably the garden lovers favorite pollinators are bees and butterflies although plenty of other flying insects such has flies, hoverflies and wasps are just as proficient. Unfortunately wasps are considered rather unsociable visitors around the picnic table so tend to be discouraged.
Attractors
There is something available for insects vitually all year round. In the allotment the earliest noticable attractors will be the blossom on fruit bushes and on warm sunny days Bumble Bees and butterflies such as Commas and Peacocks may be woken from their winter slumbers. As the days get longer and warmer more and more bees appear. Take care when walking the grassy tracks, bees are attracted to Dandelions growing close to the ground and in the margins. Lavender and Roses seem to be particular favorites from late Spring onwards then Cosmos later in the Summer. Overall bees prefer open single flowers since its much easier for them to get to the nectar at the centre. To encourage pollinators further you can leave an area unmaintained, for example, around your compost bins where insects can make their homes undisturbed.
