Bluebells blooming early
Bluebells are blooming unusually early thanks to recent very warm weather – although the traditional sea of blue may soon be a thing of the past. Bluebells are blooming unusually early thanks to recent very warm weather – although the traditional sea of blue may soon be a thing of the past. The British Bluebell, an important food source for bees and other insects, is under threat, wildlife experts say. Its popularity has led to wild bulbs being illegally dug up and sold, the Wildlife Trust claims. Gardeners are also being warned not to buy Spanish bluebells which would threaten the native variety. Campaigners from the Bumblebee Conservation Trust are also encouraging gardeners to plant cottage garden flowers, which provide more food for bees, rather than traditional bedding plants. Read the full story in the Express & Star.
The British Bluebell, an important food source for bees and other insects, is under threat, wildlife experts say. Its popularity has led to wild bulbs being illegally dug up and sold, the Wildlife Trust claims.
Gardeners are also being warned not to buy Spanish bluebells which would threaten the native variety.
Campaigners from the Bumblebee Conservation Trust are also encouraging gardeners to plant cottage garden flowers, which provide more food for bees, rather than traditional bedding plants.
Meanwhile there is plenty for bees to feed on at Bodenham Arborteum, near Kidderminster. Visitors can enjoy the woodland walks and the sight of carpets of bluebells beneath trees in the woodland areas.
Aimee Rees, aged 16, who cares for the donkeys at the Arboretum, enjoys walks with owner James Binnian's dogs Meg, aged five, and two-year-old Nell. The Arboretum is open Wednesday to Sunday (11am- 5pm).
