Honey bees are some of the biggest and most important pollinators all over the world. We are so dependent on bees for pollination that they actually pollinate one in every three bites of food we take! Honey bees are dying by the thousands every day and it's been difficult for scientists to pinpoint the exact reasons why. This phenomenon is referred to as Colony Collapse Disorder and has been occurring very frequently across the globe since 2006. We absolutely need honeybees and though it may seem difficult to help there are actually a lot of actions everyone can and should take to keep their local honey bees alive and well!

1. Grow bee friendly plants!

Planting flowers and herbs bees love is one of the most fun and beautiful ways to help save them. Bees rely on plants like sage, sunflowers, and lavender (just to name a few) for pollen and nectar to keep them going all day long. Even planting just a couple extra flowers can make a huge difference in the day of many bees.

2. Find ways to naturally ward off pests instead of pesticides.

There are tons of ways to keep unwanted insects out of your garden that won't hurt the ones who help! Some products that are non-toxic to bees are garlic, corn gluten, and kaolin clay. If pesticides are a must there are some, like neem oil, that aren't as bad for honey bees if they are sprayed at dusk, when the bees are back home safely. Also, learning what insects are good and bad for your plants will help keep your garden healthy and growing.

3. When buying plants and seeds buy pesticide free.

Many people might already know that some plants bought in stores may have been treated with pesticides, though what may not be commonly known is seeds are often treated with pesticides as well. These pesticides are called neonicotinoids, which are what scientists think may be a leading cause of Colony Collapse Disorder. Taking an extra minute or two when picking plants can make a big impact.

4. Buy local!

Buying honey and other bee produced products from local beekeepers is an amazing way to not only help the bees, but to help the important people who take care of them. Not to mention it's nice to know that the honey you're buying is all natural and only had to travel a few miles, and there are countless benefits to raw honey too!