5 responses to “gardens”

1. Hi. How can we ensure that all garden centers and retailers sell only bee-friendly plants that are guaranteed to be free of neonicotinoids – which seem to be a major factor in the destruction of bees? It is shocking to think that plants (including vegetables and flowers) that are being sold in most local stores probably are killing bees. What is the most effective method to change this situation?

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   • This is a great question, thanks for bringing it up! We agree that we should be thinking about this issue and looking for the best possible options. We’ll be doing some research to find out if there are any local places that offer these types of plants, and update our list to include them. We think patronizing our local businesses that offer these products will help make a change in this area.

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     • I have been looking into the matter myself. Below are links to two recent helpful reports. As far as major chains are concerned, ACE Hardware is showing promise – see the second link below – but Lowe’s, Home Depot and Walmart do not come out looking good, at least according to these reports.

       http://www.commondreams.org/news/2015/06/01/pollinators-risk-bee-friendly-gardening-moving-mainstream

       http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2015/05/26/ace-hardware-commits-action-bee-killing-pesticides

       Locally, Prairie Gardens has some organic vegetables that are safe for bees; but these are a bit more expensive than their less bee-friendly products and most of what they are currently selling, both vegetables and flowers, is not guaranteed to be free of neonicitinoids.

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       • Thanks for the info! We’re working on a bee-friendly section, and appreciate your help!

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       • Hi Robert, thanks again for this question – we’ve answered it in our Greener Answers!

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