Who was it said ‘Work fascinates me, I could watch it for hours’? They must have been in a garden!
There is something compelling in seeing bees and other insects working the flowers for nectar and pollen. Watching their activity can be absorbing. Such small creatures and microscopic materials, yet vital to our well being. That we can also enjoy the sight and scent of different flowers from season to season is a bonus. One of the wonders of nature.
Beekeeping, starting with wild bees, has a long history, and has been practised all over the world for millennia. For instance, it is known that domestication of bees in Egypt dates from some 4,500 years ago. Jars of honey were found in the tomb of Tutankhamun. It is up to us now to ensure the future of bees and other insects is secure. Disease, insecticides and loss of habitat are threats to their well-being. An encouraging sign is the increase in the number of hives kept in urban areas. Their bees rely on garden flowers and street floral decorations for their existence. We can all do our bit to provide suitable plants in our gardens or window boxes. Wild flowers are also important, even the humble daisy in verges, and of course clovers, are valuables resources for bees.
The work party met again on 6th July, helping Storrington to be ‘In bloom’. It was the last meeting before our summer break. We get together again on 7th September at 10.00am back at Fryern Dell to continue the restoration of the Victorian Pleasure Garden, clearing invasive species and making paths accessible. As usual, there will be the welcome coffee break. We look forward to seeing any who wish to join us.
For information about this and all our activities, or on becoming a member, please get in touch with Chairman Mick Denness on 01903 745971, or see our website www.storringtonconservation.org.uk/.