This lunchtime the EU has voted again on a proposal to ban the use of three neonicotinoid pesticides on flowering crops. Over the past few weeks, there have been arguments raging on both sides – conservations groups and beekeepers calling for a ban, while the chemical companies insist that their pesticides are safe (but at the same time agreeing that there needs to be more research into their effects in the field).
Despite public pressure, and scientific evidence of the negative impact these pesticides have on bees, the UK government has firmly backed the cause of the chemical companies, and is believed to have voted against the ban this time. Independent studies have shown links between neonicitinoid pesticides, reduced queen production in hives and disturbances to bee behaviour. Many scientists who work in this field of research (at least those not employed by Syngenta and Bayer…) were supporting the call for a ban. And the good news is that the ban has been approved and will come into force in December this year.
Even if these pesticides are linked to the observed declines in the numbers of bees, both managed and wild, the ban doesn’t of course mean that everything is now fine and that populations will recover. It’s complicated – there are so many other factors affecting insect populations – huge, huge amounts of habitat loss, lack of wild flowers, varroa mites, and in the shorter term, the rubbish weather we’ve had over the last year or so which has limited the time insects can be out there foraging. I know I’ve said this before – but as gardeners we really can help to make a difference. Plant nectar rich flowers – you know the ‘old fashioned’ cottage garden varieties, wildflowers or, if you’re brave enough, leave some weeds to flower. One thing to remember though if you are visiting a local garden centre to buy plants – these neonicotinoids are used to treat many seeds and bedding plants, and because they’re systemic they could be present in the plant you’re bringing home to attract bees. Buy plants that haven’t been treated with these chemicals – even better, buy organic and from a local grower! Then, if you have space in the garden, leave an area of longer grass – it’s a great habitat for bumblebee nests, and lots of other insects too. And (yes, I know I’m asking a lot) a shallow dish of water for drinking is much appreciated by insects too.
Let’s hope the interest in pollinator decline generated by the media coverage of the neonics issue will prove to be positive… and that our pollinating insects, which provide such an important service, will have a more secure future.
And if anyone out there is gardening for pollinators, or wildlife in general, I’d love to hear (and if you’re blogging, read) about it – let me know!
The Garden Deli 
This is wonderful news, made a lovely sunny day in the garden even better (if that’s possible!) I keep bees and have suffered losses over the past two winters, only one hive left active, hoping this one hangs in there. I grow lots of flowers and have been keeping an eye on what the bees seem to like, some of the favourites so far are Phacelia, Echium ‘blue bedder’ and Agastache ‘Black adder’, but like you say, cottage garden flowers in general. Thank you for this post, I feel optimistic that bees are getting good press and with this news, hopefully they’ll pull through!
Sorry to hear about your bees – it must be really disappointing to lose entire hives. As you say, the ban is good news and makes sense really until further research is done.
Great news indeed – just heard it on TV too. I am growing more and more flowers with the insects in mind – not just bees, but butterflies and moths too. At the moment our flowering currant and the Mahonia are the major attractions!
Moths, yes! I always forget moths, but they’re struggling in the UK too. Need to get more plants for moths – thanks for the reminder!
Excellent points, very well made. Native cottage garden flowers seem to make sense for so many reasons don’t they – attractive, generally easy to grow and providing great habitats for our beens and insects. I’m sure I’m even noticing bees around nettles at the moment – would that be right?
Nettles are good for ladybirds (aphids for food) and butterflies (leaves for food), but not sure about bees – will have to look into that one!
It is excellent news but I think it will be some time before the bee population recovers. Meanwhile I am doing my bit sowing wild flowers and echium and phacelia – for me these type of plants suit my style of gardening and any plant with an open flower head is good. Onwards and upwards!
There’s more to bee recovery than just banning neonics, that’s for sure. But it must be a step in the right direction – it’s generated plenty of media interest if nothing else.
Wonderful news 🙂
Tis indeed!
Great news indeed. Hopefully this will snowball into similar laws elsewhere.
Michael
Is there a similar move for a ban in the US?
Great post Sarah – and I like the advice to plant old fashioned cottage plants. Each year I visit the local garden centre and choose a new plant based on how many bees are buzzing around it. If it’s good enough for them then it’s perfect for my piece of earth! I forget about the moths too so this has been a timely reminder x
Sounds like a really good way to choose plants – let the bees guide you!