What crops lend themselves to pollination by native bees?
Macadamia, blueberry, avocado, blackberry, raspberry, strawberry and lychee are the main crops.
What are the benefits of native bees to my crop?
In Macadamia’s native bees have been shown to increase yield, nut in shell, and importantly kernel size.
In Blueberries native bees have increased pollination, improved seed set, fruit size and the weight of fruit through cross pollination.
When should I arrange to have the hives put into my crop?
For Blueberries – Winter fruit should have bees in place at the end of February till June or until pollination is complete.
Summer fruit should have bees in place by August.
Macadamias flower from August till October. So, bees should be in place by late August.
Raspberries and Blackberries can have extended flowering so each farm should have a conversation about the number of hives required and the date of setting up the hives on the farm.
What species of native bees are suitable for my crop?
The species of native bees used is Tetragonula carbonaria. This species of bee has proven itself as an efficient pollinator.
Is the area I live in suitable for your native bees?
The bees that we use, T.carbonaria, are naturally distributed on the East coast of Australia on the Eastern side of the Great Dividing Range. They can be found as far South as Bega and as far North as the Atherton tablelands.
Product questions
What are the benefits of native bee honey?
Native bee honey has antimicrobial, antibacterial and antifungal properties.
What are the hives made out of?
The hives are made of recycled plastic and wood composite material. It is durable in the weather, has superior insulation qualities and is light weight.
How do you ship populated hives?
Delivery is arranged so that the hive arrives in as short a time as possible. We usually send the hives by courier.
Education questions
In what areas are you able to give school talks?
We deliver programs on the East coast and service Brisbane to Sydney.
Do you talk to community groups?
Yes, weregularly deliver to community groups. Talks can be booked by contacting us directly. Alternatively, watch our social media pages for upcoming events. Facebook. Instagram
How can I tell people about native bees?
Follow us on Instagram or facebook
Can you answer other questions about native bees?
Contact us if you have any further questions we can help you with.
