Bee Houses - new outreach project

[tri4sale]

Saw this article online and thought that's a simple project, could possible be an easy project for kids to do at outreach events.

Not a fan of how they hang it, I think a better method could be devised.

http://citygirlfarming.com/2012/03/07/if-you-build-it-they-will-come-hopefully/

 

[Brantnative]

Good idea for a simple project for the kids. But I suspect around here they'd also attract carpenter bees. I wouldn't hang them too near my house.

 

[tri4sale]

True, I did wonder about carpenter bees being attracted to these. The original article about them says these are for mason bees, which look for pre-existing holes.

http://www.nwf.org/How-to-Help/Garden-for-Wildlife/Gardening-Tips/Build-a-Bee-House.aspx

I'd rather have the carpenter bees nesting in these than my porch like the currently due (and return year after year after I kill them off...)

 

[Mark Gottesman]

I have used drilled wooden blocks with parchment paper liner tubes for over a decade. I have never had a problem with carpenter bees. They are located right off my back deck along the driveway. The bees are only active for around 6 weeks when the Bradford Pear trees and the blueberry bushes are blooming. The blocks then get relocated to my screen porch till next year when I get the cocoons ready for hatching. Never worried about getting stung. There are also plans floating around for other solitary bees including Bumblebees. Bumble Bees would be a great addition to your pollinator roster.

Glad to answer any questions I can.

Link to a photo album of my Bee Blocks http://s164.photobucket.com/user/gyozu/library/Mason%20Bee%20Blocks


Edit: add another album:

http://s164.photobucket.com/user/gyozu/library/Bee Blocks 2012_2013