Farmer Guides

Bees

Extending the supply of nutritious pollen for bees in spring - Winning with Willows

Pollen from willows is one of the most important sources of protein for honey bees in the spring.
Beekeepers need protein to build their bee numbers to maximum strength before the start of pollination services and honey flows.
The flowering times and quantity of pollen produced by willows varies amongst the varieties.
Having a range of varieties means pollen can be available over an extended period.

NZ Poplar & Willow Research Trust: http://www.poplarandwillow.org.nz/library/winning-with-willows

Willow Pollen for Spring Hive Vigour

Willows are valuable sources of bee pollen.
Sequential flowering of selectively planted willows can provide 3 months of continuous pollen supply.
Pollen production and flowering times are assessed for selected willow varieties.

NZ Poplar & Willow Research Trust: http://www.poplarandwillow.org.nz/library/willow-pollen-for-spring-hive-vigour