Why Have a Bee Hotel in Your Garden?
A butterfly house or bee house is the perfect way to bring life to your outdoor space and get the little ones excited about heading out into the garden, too. And with the world’s bee, insect, and butterfly populations in serious decline, why not do your bit to give your local pollinators a helping hand? With an insect house, you can give them a safe space to rest and raise their young.
How Does a Bee House Work?
A bee house is a safe and sheltered space for solitary bees to nest and lay their eggs. Unlike honeybees, solitary bees don’t live in hives, so they rely on natural cavities to reproduce – like a bee house! These tiny spaces have small hollow tubes or drilled wooden blocks that are just big enough for bees to crawl inside and lay their eggs. Once the eggs are laid, they can seal the entrance to protect their young.
Then, when the weather warms up, you’ll have plenty of pollinators in your garden (and hopefully lots of flowers for them, too)
Where to Put an Insect House
The best spot for an insect house is a sunny, sheltered spot where it will stay dry and warm. For bee houses, make sure it’s at least 1m off the ground and facing east or northeast to catch the morning sun. Avoid places near busy areas like doorways or seating areas, as insects prefer quiet spots.
Butterfly houses can be placed near annual flowers or
Butterfly houses can be placed near perennial flowers where they’ll feel at home. Secure the house firmly to avoid movement in the wind, and watch as your new guests settle in!
Shop Bee and Butterfly Houses at Mr Fothergill’s Today
Welcome some new residents to your outside space when you shop one of Mr Fothergill’s butterfly and bee houses. What are you waiting for? Get ready to help both your garden and the wildlife in your area thrive! Shop Mr Fothergill’s insect house selection at all good garden centres and major hardware stores, or shop our collection online today.