You Should Put a Spoon of Sugar in Your Backyard Before Leaving the House
I know the idea of leaving a spoonful of sugar in your backyard before going out sounds like something Mary Poppins would recommend. But there's a good reason why you should start doing this simple act. It’s not some old wive’s tale, it’s actually about bees! As pollinators, bees are super important to our food supply, but helping them doesn’t always have to take a ton of effort. Sometimes, it just takes a spoon full of sugar.
Bees Get Tired
Bees can become exhausted while out collecting nectar and may collapse from overwork, especially in high heat. When they do, they often can’t make it back to the hive without some help. A spoonful of sugar mixed with a bit of water can give tired bees just enough energy to recover from their exhaustion and continue their journey.
When Flowers Aren’t Enough
Also, in many urban areas or during dry seasons, bees may not find enough flowers to feed from. A sugar-water mix can support them for a little while when natural nectar sources are low. It doesn’t replace flowers, but it can fill the gap in times of need.
No Stings
Still want another reason to leave that spoonful of sugar outside? It’ll help protect you from getting stung by a bee. Bees are naturally attracted to the sugar water mixture, and will be less interested in you or any of your backyard guests. A summer dinner party with less bee stings is always a win in my books!
It’s Incredibly Easy
You don’t need special tools or any gardening skills to help the bees either. Just mix two tablespoons of white sugar with one tablespoon of water, place the mixture on a spoon, and leave it in a shaded spot. That’s it. It takes seconds, costs almost nothing, and actually helps.
A Simple Way to Do Some Good
Helping bees doesn’t have to be complicated. This small act is an easy way to care for the natural world right outside your door. It’s simple and practical, and it reminds us that even the smallest actions we do can still have a big impact.
Try It Today!
If you have sugar, water, and a spoon, you already have everything you need to help. Before you rush out the door, take a moment to do something nice for a tired bee. They work hard supporting our ecosystems and making our flowers bloom, so it's an easy way to say 'thank you!'