We have 2 large patches of Jerusalem Artichokes in our forest garden which have begun to bloom now :) Such a blessing for the bees when fresh pesticide free pollen is needed to create winter bees. Bees use pollen to create fat bodies (Vitellogenin) in their abdomen which makes them live long up to 6-12 months. I can see bees bringing in orange, yellow and white-grayish pollen at this time. Not much pollen though but still better than nothing.
Bees are eagerly collecting nectar and pollen from Jerusalem Artichokes flowers
The Great Willow Herb is still in the bloom. Note the whiteish pollen
Lovely Jerusalem artichokes. I've been looking for something to create a field. That's a great idea.
ReplyDeleteDid you plant those Jerusalem artichokes or are they 'wild'? I'd like to have something more blooming this time of year, but I see the bees bringing in all kinds of pollen, so obviously they are finding something.
ReplyDeleteNo i didnt. I think they were planted by the previous owner. They flower no more than 2-3 weeks though. Still good enough since we can also eat them. I live in a conventional mono-crop area and to my surprise bees are bringing in lots of pollen even though I cant see anything flowering at this time much. They must be flying long distances to get it.
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