Trees and shrubs are planted for a number of reasons — as windbreaks, for shade or shelter, and for aesthetic reasons. By carefully selecting the species you may also produce an environment attractive to native birds and bees. It is doubtful whether enough flowering shrubsand trees can be planted on a farm or recreational activity area to be a major benefit to commercial beekeeping; but there is good reason to believe they can benefit small static apiaries. A commercial stocking rate for beehives is about one hive per 4–12 ha. This figure varies with the honey and pollen yielding capacity of the flora.
Consider these points before selecting species on the basis of honey and pollen yielding capacity:
- Multiple plantings of a range of species are more desirable than two or three plants of many species.
- Choose a species that will grow well in your area. As an indication, have a good look around your district and list species which are performing well. If planting species in an area where bees are used for pollinating crops, select species that have a flowering time different from that of the crops.
- Avoid selecting winter flowering species for the Tablelands. The temperature is often too low for bees to work these sources efficiently. If they do, health problems in the bee colony may result.
- When planting near drains, sewers and buildings, consider whether the plantings may cause damage in the future.
- Select salt tolerant species in areas where this is, or may be, a problem.
- Windbreaks should be planted three to four plants wide. Consider an extra one or two rows chosen for honey and pollen production, and to increase the aesthetic appeal of the plantings.
Further information
For more information on individual species, see Honey and Pollen Flora, by A. Clemson, 1985, (Inkata).
Author
Doug Somerville. District Livestock Officer (Apiculture) Goulburn
