UC Master Gardeners of Solano County

Join the Nature Journaling adventure!

Come to Dunnell Nature Park Saturday for a fantastic journey into this creative hobby!

THIS WEBINAR HAS BEEM CANCELED!

Save water by repairing irrigation systems

Bees as Pollinators

Solano County is home to native and non-native bees. Native bees are especially important because they are adapted to local plants and may be more efficient at pollinating native species than honeybees. Planting native species can create ideal habitats for these bees. The mix of agricultural lands, grasslands, riparian areas, and urban gardens provides habitat for multiple bee species.

Common Bees:

Honeybees: While not native, honeybees are widely recognized and important for pollination.

Bumble Bees: These are large, fuzzy bees that are excellent pollinators. The most common is the Yellow Faced Bumblebee. It is very slow and nests in the ground, favoring old gopher holes. Great for native gardens.

Carpenter Bees: Known for their ability to burrow into wood, they are solitary and play a role in pollination. The Valley Carpenter Bee is a large, black bee, often found in the garden. This bee does not sting. Females are black but the males are golden brown, earning them the nickname "teddy bear bee."

Mason Bees: Another solitary species, mason bees are effective pollinators and often nest in small cavities. They use mud to construct walls between each egg chamber. They store pollen on their abdomen instead of the hind legs like most bees.

Sweat Bees: These small bees are attracted to human sweat and are generally harmless.

Leafcutter Bees: Known for cutting leaves to line their nests, they are also important pollinators.

Fun Bee Facts

Bees can visit hundreds of flowers in a single day.

Some native bees nest in bare soil, while others use hollows or man-made cavities.

Bees are not just pollinators — they also help control pests by preying on other insects.

Without bees, many plants — from wildflowers to almond trees — would struggle to reproduce.

How to Help Bees

Plant native flowers and shrubs that bloom in succession.

Avoid pesticides and herbicides.

Provide nesting sites for solitary bees.

Support local conservation efforts.

Join us at Vacaville Town Square Library for this upcoming presentation.

Learn about common good and bad insects, Pest Mangagement, Disease Cycles and Smart Prevention!

CONSUMER ALERT: The Solano County Ag Commissioner is urgently asking residents to take immediate action after invasive glassy-winged sharpshooters were detected on plant shipments delivered to local Costco stores. These insects pose a serious and immediate threat to vineyards, agriculture and backyard plants throughout Solano County and surrounding regions. For more information, please review the press release:

https://www.solanocounty.gov/news/consumer-alert-invasive-glassy-winged-sharpshooter-found-plants-shipped-solano-stores

https://sacdigsgardening.californialocal.com/article/617616-gesneriad-sale/

Sacramento Digs Gardening: This spring sale will add flower power to your great indoors Find hundreds of African violets and other indoor blooming plants

Come learn about using Integrated Pest Management to have your healthiest garden yet! No harsh chemicals needed.

Presenter: Mackenzie Patton UCCE Integrated Pest Management Advisor.

Description: This presentation will cover & variety of abiotic disorders, such as heat stress or nutrient deficiency, and vegetable diseases common in the Sacramento Valley and teach you how to tell the difference.

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Benefits of Biodiversity

Ecological Balance

Diverse plant species support various pollinators and beneficial insects, enhancing pollination and pest control.

A variety of plants can improve soil health and reduce erosion, contributing to a more resilient ecosystem.

Wildlife Habitat

Gardens with diverse flora provide essential habitats for local wildlife, including birds, insects, and small mammals, promoting a balanced ecosystem.

Aesthetic and Recreational Value

Biodiverse gardens are visually appealing and can create serene spaces for relaxation and recreation, enhancing community well-being.

Sustainable Practices

Incorporating native plants can reduce water usage and maintenance needs, promoting sustainable gardening
practices.



Image by Annette Meyer from Pixabay

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