Bees and clover go together like peanut butter and jelly. Clover is a vital food source for bees and other pollinators, helping them thrive. But not all clovers are created equal, and many people don’t realize how much different types of clover impact bee populations.
This article will explore the sweet relationship between bees and clover, differentiate between clover species that are best for bees, and address any misconceptions you may have about bees clover.
A case of mistaken identity: red clover vs. crimson clover
Often, when people talk about clover and bees, they fail to make a distinction between red clover and crimson clover. But it’s an important distinction.
Distinguishing features
Crimson clover (Trifolium incarnatum) is a valuable source of forage for honeybees. Its flowers are a vibrant, blood-red color, and the florets are short enough that honeybees can easily reach the nectar.
Red clover (Trifolium pratense), on the other hand, is generally considered poor forage for bees. Its flowers are pink, and the honeybees often can’t reach the nectar in the long, tubular flowers.
Debunking the myth
There’s a common misperception that honeybees don’t like clover. This may stem from the fact that some sources incorrectly state that red clover is crimson clover and that honeybees don’t like red clover.
It’s important to be able to tell the different types of clover apart if you’re a beekeeper or a gardener trying to attract bees to your property.
The benefits of clover beyond honey production
Clover isn’t just for bees and honey. It also plays an important role in agriculture.
Clover’s role in agriculture
Clover reduces nitrogen leaching and greenhouse gas emissions, namely nitrous oxide. Fertilizers can contribute to nitrogen loss, which in turn affects water quality and has a negative impact on the climate.
Clover fixes nitrogen in its root nodules, which reduces the need for synthetic nitrogen fertilizer. For farmers, this can be a low-cost alternative.
Environmental and economic advantages
Clover improves soil structure and reduces weed invasion. Using clover can also improve livestock performance, stability, and drought resistance, making it a versatile and valuable crop for farmers looking to improve their yields and reduce their environmental impact.
Which bees benefit from clover?
Clover’s a great resource for bees, and it can help honeybees and other pollinators survive.
Honeybees and clover
For honeybees, clover can be a lifeline, providing nectar that helps colonies thrive, even when other nectar sources are scarce. Planting clover can help offset colony collapse, which is an ongoing threat.
Supporting a variety of pollinators
Although honeybees benefit from clover, you can attract a wider variety of pollinators by planting a mix of nectar- and pollen-rich plants, like sainfoin, vetches, birdsfoot trefoil, and even forbs like chicory.
Clover also supports bumblebees and other bee species. Many native bees benefit from clover’s nectar, so you’ll be helping them out when you plant it.
In Conclusion
Planting clover is a win for farmers, a win for the environment, and a win for bees and other pollinators. Farmers can reduce their fertilizer costs and improve the quality of their soil. Environmentally, clover reduces nitrogen leaching and greenhouse gas emissions. And for pollinators, clover provides much-needed food and habitat.
If you’re looking for a way to support bee populations and promote sustainable farming practices, consider planting clover. It’s a simple, effective way to make a positive impact.