Bees in Indiana: A Spring Awakening and How to Support Them

As the temperatures rise and spring settles in across Indiana, a buzzing sound is slowly returning to our gardens, fields, and forests. It’s the unmistakable hum of bees, nature’s pollinators, waking up after the long winter slumber. These industrious insects play a crucial role in our ecosystem and agriculture, and understanding how to support them through the seasons is key to their survival.

When Do Bees Start to Appear in Spring?

In Indiana, bee activity typically begins to pick up in early spring, around mid to late March. This timing is dependent on weather conditions, but as temperatures consistently rise above 50°F (10°C), many species of bees—especially honeybees—start to emerge from their hives or nest sites.

Unlike the long hibernation of some animals, bees do not truly "hibernate" but enter a form of dormancy or reduced activity during the colder months. Honeybees cluster together inside their hive to keep warm through the winter, while solitary bees, such as carpenter bees and mason bees, burrow into safe, sheltered places.

What Do Bees Need After Hibernation?

After emerging from winter dormancy, bees have specific needs to get back to full strength:

Food: As they wake up, bees need access to nectar and pollen to fuel their bodies and begin their work of pollination. Nectar provides them with sugar for energy, while pollen is rich in proteins and fats that are essential for reproduction and building strong, healthy colonies.

Warmth: Bees are cold-blooded creatures, and the warmer spring temperatures are necessary for them to start foraging actively. While they can tolerate some cold early in spring, a stable temperature is crucial to getting them back to peak activity levels.

Water: Bees need access to water to stay hydrated and help regulate the temperature within their hives. Early spring rain or dew can provide them with their first drinks, but providing a consistent, safe water source in gardens is essential, especially in drier months.

6 Flowers to Plant for Bees to Thrive In Indiana

The flowers that bloom in Indiana are vital food sources for bees, offering both nectar and pollen. In Indiana, the following flowers are particularly beneficial for bees:

1. Crocus: One of the first flowers to bloom in early spring, crocus provides an early food source for honeybees and other pollinators.
   
   
2. Wildflowers: Native wildflowers like Black-eyed Susans, Purple Coneflower, and Bee Balm are fantastic for supporting local bee populations. These plants are rich in nectar and pollen and provide a stable food source throughout the growing season.
   
   
3. Lavender: Known for its fragrant blooms, lavender not only smells wonderful but also attracts bees with its abundant nectar.
   
   
4. Clovers: White clover, in particular, is a favorite of bees. It thrives in Indiana’s fertile soils and can be found in lawns, fields, and along roadsides, providing a consistent nectar source.
   
   
5. Sunflowers: As summer progresses, sunflowers provide a brilliant burst of color and an excellent food source for honeybees, bumblebees, and other pollinators.
6. Goldenrod: Blooms in late summer and early fall, offering one last feast of nectar before the cooler months arrive.

By planting these and other native plants, you can create a bee-friendly habitat that offers nectar and pollen from early spring through late fall.

Providing Water for Bees in Summer

Throughout the hot summer months, bees need access to water to stay hydrated. While bees are great at finding water sources on their own, it's a good idea to provide a safe and accessible water station in your garden. However, there are a few important things to keep in mind:

Shallow Water: Bees prefer shallow, accessible water sources. A shallow birdbath or a small container with rocks or twigs can provide a safe space for bees to land and drink without the risk of drowning.

Flowing Water: Bees can drink from still water, but they love moving or trickling water. A small fountain or a water feature with a gentle flow can be very attractive to bees. Just ensure that it’s not too deep and that they have an easy way to land.

Avoid Chlorine: Bees are sensitive to chemicals, so avoid using chlorinated water or harmful pesticides near your water sources. It's best to use untreated rainwater or water from natural sources like ponds.

Damp Soil: In addition to providing direct water sources, you can also keep the soil in your garden slightly damp. Bees often drink from moist soil or mud, which helps them maintain hydration and gather necessary minerals.

As we welcome the arrival of spring in Indiana, let’s remember the critical role that bees play in our ecosystems. By understanding when they start to emerge, what they need after hibernation, and how we can support them with flowers and water, we can all do our part to ensure their survival and success. Creating a bee-friendly environment is not only beneficial for these incredible creatures but also for our local food systems and biodiversity.

So, every little action counts, whether you're planting a pollinator garden, offering a shallow water dish, or simply appreciating the bees as they visit your flowers. By supporting bees, we’re helping ensure a healthy and vibrant environment for many generations to come.

IF YOU'RE LOOKING for a fun craft to do with kids and help bees in your gardens at the same time––Check out our upcoming Bee Bath Workshop this summer!