When we think of bees, spring flowers and summer gardens are usually your first thoughts, but bees play a vital role in the fall season too! As the weather cools, bees are still hard at work, ensuring that plants can thrive and produce the foods we love to eat. From pumpkins to apples, many of our fall favorites rely on bees for pollination.
Why Bees Matter in Fall
During the fall, many late-blooming plants need bees to help them pollinate. Plants like sunflowers, asters, and goldenrods, are essential for biodiversity and maintaining ecosystems. Without bees, the reproduction of these plants would be at risk, which could disrupt entire food chains.
Not only do bees help wild plants, but they also contribute to the production of fall crops. Pumpkins, squash, and apples all need bees to grow! In fact, one study found that bees pollinate about 75% of the world’s flowering plants and nearly 35% of global crops (U.S. Geological Survey). Without bees, many of our go-to fall foods wouldn’t make it on to our plates.
The Hidden Heroes of Fall Harvest
As the days get shorter and the temperatures drop, bees continue to gather nectar and pollen to prepare for the winter. The fall season is crucial for them to build up their energy reserves, which help them survive the colder months. This makes their work in fall pollination even more important—not just for the plants, but for the bees themselves.
How You Can Help Bees This Fall
There are simple ways you can support bees during the fall season. Consider planting late-blooming flowers like marigolds or sedum in your garden, or leave some areas of your yard undisturbed for wildflowers to grow. Providing a water source like a shallow dish with stones for bees to rest on can also make a big difference.
Believe it or not, leaving some leaves on the ground in your yard can actually help bees! Many native bees burrow into the ground or take shelter under fallen leaves during the colder months. When we rake up all the leaves, we’re often disturbing their habitats or getting rid of the natural insulation that helps them survive the winter. By leaving a portion of your yard undisturbed—especially areas with dense leaf cover—you’re creating a safe space for bees to rest and prepare for the spring.
So next time you’re enjoying a slice of pumpkin pie or picking apples at your local orchard, take a moment to appreciate the hardworking bees behind your favorite fall treats.
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