Skip the sugar water: Scientists say flowers are the best ‘hydration stations’ for bees

London: Bee experts are urging people to ditch the viral trend of sugar-water bowls and instead plant flowers if they want to help struggling bees during this summer’s drought.

Dr. Richard Comont, science manager at the Bee Conservation Trust, says the commonly shared “hydration stations” — bowls of sugar mixed with water — do not revive tired bees and may do little for most wild species.“

Bumblebees get basically all the fluid they need from nectar direct from flowers, as do most other flower-visiting insects,” Dr. Comont said.

While honeybees are an exception because they collect water to cool the hive and rehydrate nectar, Dr. Comont notes they are “one, semi-domesticated species among 280 or so wild bee species” in the UK.

According to Dr. Comont, real nectar contains more than just sugar. It also has sterols, amino acids and other compounds essential for bee nutrition — nutrients that plain sugar water cannot replace.

What actually works

The best “hydration station,” he says, is a shady patch of well-watered flowers, or flowers near a pond. “Shaded plants mean bumblebees can keep visiting them for longer,” he explained. Bumblebees begin struggling to fly when air temperatures rise above 86°F (30°C), and even sooner in bright sun. Drought also hits bees hard by drying out plants, which then cannot produce nectar.

“Really, the single biggest thing people can do is provide food for the bees — i.e. plants which do actually produce nectar and pollen,” Dr. Comont said. He recommends deep-rooted plants as they retain access to water longer during dry spells.

With both the UK and US experiencing drought, conservation groups say supporting floral resources is more effective than temporary fixes.

As a sign of progress, Oregon recently recorded 5 years with zero pesticide-related bee deaths — another step experts say is crucial for bee survival.