Best Trees for Bees: A Guide to Planting Bee-Friendly Trees

Bees are essential pollinators that play a critical role in our ecosystem. Without them, many plants and crops would not be able to reproduce or produce fruit. However, due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and disease, bee populations have been declining worldwide. One way we can help support these important creatures is by planting bee-friendly trees. In this blog post, we'll discuss the best trees for bees, how they benefit these pollinators, and other tips for creating a bee-friendly garden.

The Importance of Trees for Bees

Trees offer several benefits to bees, including providing shelter, food, and nesting sites. They also help regulate the temperature, humidity, and air quality of their surroundings. Additionally, trees can act as a windbreak, protecting bees from harsh winds and weather conditions.

Shelter

Many bee species require shelter for nesting and hibernation. Trees provide a natural, protected environment for bees to live and thrive. Hollow trees, dead wood, and branches with cavities are particularly important for solitary bees and bumblebees.

Food

Trees offer a source of nectar and pollen, which bees need for sustenance. Some trees produce more nectar than others, making them particularly attractive to bees. Additionally, flowering trees provide a valuable food source early in the season when other plants may not yet be blooming.

Best Trees for Bees

Here are some of the best trees to plant for bees:

1. Flowering Dogwood

The flowering dogwood (Cornus florida) is a beautiful, ornamental tree that produces clusters of small, white or pink flowers in the spring. Bees are attracted to the nectar and pollen produced by these flowers.

2. Black Cherry

The black cherry (Prunus serotina) is a native tree that produces fragrant, white flowers in the spring. The flowers are an excellent source of nectar for bees and other pollinators.

3. Apple

Apple trees (Malus spp.) are another great option for bees. They produce large, showy flowers in the spring that are rich in nectar and pollen. Additionally, apple trees provide fruit that can be used as a food source for bees and other wildlife.

4. Willow

Willow trees (Salix spp.) are particularly attractive to honeybees because they produce a high volume of nectar. They also offer shelter and nesting sites for solitary bees.

5. Linden

The linden (Tilia spp.) is a tall, deciduous tree that produces fragrant, yellowish-white flowers in the summer. These flowers are rich in nectar and attract a variety of bee species.

Tips for Creating a Bee-Friendly Garden

In addition to planting bee-friendly trees, there are several other things you can do to create a garden that supports bees:

1. Provide Nesting Sites

As mentioned earlier, many bee species require shelter for nesting and hibernation. You can help by providing artificial nesting sites such as bee hotels, which can be purchased or made at home.

2. Avoid Pesticides

Pesticides are harmful to bees and other pollinators. If you must use them, choose products that are bee-friendly and apply them during times when bees are less active, such as early in the morning or late at night.

3. Plant Native Plants

Native plants are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, making them more attractive to native bee species. They also require less water and maintenance than non-native plants.

4. Provide a Water Source

Bees need water to drink and regulate their body temperature. You can provide a water source by placing a shallow dish filled with water and rocks in your garden.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. How do trees benefit bees?

Trees provide shelter, food, and nesting sites for bees. They also help regulate the temperature, humidity, and air quality of their surroundings.

Q2. What types of trees are best for bees?

Some of the best trees for bees include flowering dogwood, black cherry, apple, willow, and linden trees.

Q3. What can I do to create a bee-friendly garden?

You can create a bee-friendly garden by planting bee-friendly trees and native plants, providing nesting sites and a water source, and avoiding the use of pesticides.

Q4. Can I plant non-native trees for bees?

While non-native trees may still provide some benefits to bees, native trees are better adapted to the local ecosystem and are generally more attractive to native bee species.

Q5. How else can I help support bees?

In addition to planting bee-friendly trees and creating a bee-friendly garden, you can support bees by supporting local beekeepers, advocating for policies that protect bees and other pollinators, and educating others about the importance of bees.


Planting bee-friendly trees is a simple and effective way to support these important pollinators. By providing shelter, food, and nesting sites, trees play a critical role in creating a healthy ecosystem for bees and other wildlife. So why not plant a tree (or several!) today and help support our fuzzy little friends?