A must have for gardeners

I must admit that I am a bit undereducated about how all the plant world works but am not new to gardening at all.   Flowers are definitely my forte' as I have failed miserably most times I attempt much in the way of vegetables.  While my soil is mostly to blame, there are various things I can do to increase the likelihood of being able to pick a fresh squash or tomato from my own garden.  One of those contributions I can make to not only help myself but to help other around me is to encourage bees to visit by planting trees, shrubs, vegetables, annuals,  and perennials that attract bees and hummingbirds to our area.

The Bee-friendly Garden by Kate Frey and Gretchen LeBuhn is filled with suggestions on what to (and not to) plant whether you have a tiny little space or a large yard, how to care for those plants to achieve your goal of continuing to attract helpful insects, the dangers of pesticides and herbicides to our bee friends, and suggestions on how to design your own bee friendly garden.  If after reading, you want to extend beyond your own backyard, there is a chapter devoted to how to become an activist.

I found this volume well within my ability to understand all the elements.  The authors make the importance of pollinators clear and I loved the lists of suggested plants to purchase in order to increase my own bee population.  I know that may sound a bit odd to anyone who is allergic to bees or who are fearful of being stung.  But, if you love to eat fresh fruits and vegetables, you better be ready to take care of and encourage pollinators that are already gravitating toward an endangered level with the way our world gardens today. Whether a new or experienced gardener, this book is for everyone.  An added bonus is the beautiful garden photography.  Loved it!

I did receive this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  I was in no way obligated to write a positive one.  This one goes on my gift list for my gardener friends.  First up....my aunt whose husband is a beekeeper.  She is going to love it!