Trees, often overlooked in favor of smaller flowering plants, represent a massive and concentrated source of pollen and nectar for bees. A single mature tree can provide a greater quantity of food resources than an entire field of herbaceous flowers. This abundant supply is particularly important early in the season, when smaller plants have not yet fully emerged, and later in the year, as a final resource before winter. By planting the right species, people can provide a continuous and high-volume food source that directly supports bee health and survival.
Early Spring Trees Essential for Colony Survival
The first blooms of spring are necessary for the survival and initial buildup of a bee colony coming out of winter dormancy. Bees require a sudden influx of protein-rich pollen to begin rearing new generations of brood. Without this early nutrition, the colony cannot quickly expand its workforce.
Maple trees, especially Red Maple (Acer rubrum) and Silver Maple (Acer saccharinum), are among the earliest sources, often blooming in late February or March. Their inconspicuous flowers deliver both nectar and pollen. Willow species (Salix spp.) are also foundational, providing huge amounts of protein-rich pollen that is used to create “bee bread” for the developing larvae.
This timing is paramount because mild weather can cause colonies to consume stored honey reserves faster than expected, risking starvation. Early trees bridge this precarious gap, enabling the colony to gather the first fresh stores needed to fuel rapid population growth before the main foraging season begins.
Summer Trees That Provide Peak Nectar Flow
The summer months feature trees that deliver the highest volume of nectar. These species are responsible for the major “honey flows” that beekeepers rely on. This nectar is high in sugars, which the bees convert into honey for long-term storage.
Black Locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) is a prolific honey producer, typically blooming in late spring to early summer. Its fragrant, white, pea-like flowers yield a clean, light-colored honey. A single mature tree can be covered in dense clusters of blossoms, providing a significant flow for a colony in a short period.
Basswood, or Linden (Tilia spp.), is another champion nectar producer that typically blooms in mid-summer. The flowers are intensely fragrant and can be so abundant that a colony may collect 20 to 30 kilograms of honey during its two-week bloom period. The nectar from both Black Locust and Basswood is valued for its superior flavor and light color.
Late Season Trees for Winter Preparation
As summer wanes, a bee’s nutritional focus shifts from honey production to building up fat reserves in the “winter bees.” These specialized bees must survive for several months to ensure the colony makes it through the cold season. They require a final surge of high-protein pollen to develop large fat bodies, which serve as their energy source.
The Seven-son Flower (Heptacodium miconioides) is an excellent choice for a late-season resource, blooming from late July into August. This tree provides a welcome source of both nectar and pollen when many other summer flowers have faded. Sumac (Rhus spp.) is another reliable source that often blooms in late summer.
These late-blooming species ensure that colonies have the necessary protein and carbohydrates to rear a strong population of healthy, long-lived winter bees. The Sourwood tree (Oxydendrum arboreum), which blooms mid-summer, also acts as an important bridge, providing a strong nectar flow that allows bees to solidify their stores before the truly late-season plants appear.
Selecting and Caring for Pollinator Trees
Choosing the right trees requires careful planning. It is recommended to select native tree species, as they are best adapted to local conditions and co-evolved with native pollinators. Native trees often require less maintenance and are more resilient than non-native ornamentals.
Planting a diverse selection of trees and shrubs ensures a continuous food supply from early spring through fall. A continuous bloom cycle prevents seasonal gaps in foraging, which can cause stress and population decline within a colony. Planting trees in groups can increase foraging efficiency, making it easier for bees to locate and collect resources.
It is necessary to avoid the use of systemic pesticides, such as neonicotinoids, which can contaminate the pollen and nectar. If pest control is required, use non-toxic methods or target applications only in the evening after bees have returned to their hives. Proper placement and soil preparation, such as ensuring well-drained, acidic soil for sensitive species like Sourwood, will lead to healthier, more productive trees.