Bees scramble for the brambles

Gardeners’ World viewers have helped scientists pin down bramble flowers as honeybees’ favourites. Researchers at the National Botanic Garden of Wales (NBGW) have been using DNA barcoding to analyse hundreds of honey samples from viewers, including one from Monty’s hives at Longmeadow, following an appeal on the programme in 2017. But NBGW Head of Science, Dr Natasha de Vere, says it’s important to grow a range of flowers: “Providing diversity is where gardeners can help,” she says. Dandelions, ivy and white clover were noted as also popular with honeybees.