Texas just ranked as the fourth best state for beekeeping.
According to a report by Lawn Love, Texas is one of the best states for beekeeping, also ranking as the third state with highest honey value. The other states in the top five are: California, New York, North Dakota, Texas, and Ohio. California is the state with the most apiculture classes and establishments.
Bees have suffered a population decline in the past year, putting this species at risk. Particularly, in Texas, Winter Storm Uri caused a huge drop in bee numbers. But, according to a report by AgriLife Today, 2023 could be a good year for bees, with more rain. Climate change and pollution are factors that put bees at risk, and human beings, as bees are responsible for pollinating 75% of the world’s flowering plants.
“Bee populations in Central Texas are growing, and some bees are already in ‘honey flow,’ which means they are bringing back enough nectar to store and feed to their young,” said Dodie Stillman, president of the Texas Beekeepers Association.
In the Lawn Love report there is also a series of recommendations for citizens so they can help the bees with small action. Here are their tips: replacing your grass with clover and native plants that attract pollinators, using organic pest control methods and designing a bee-friendly landscape. With the help of everyone, we could make Texas a suitable home for more of our buzzing friends.
