Some years ago, I nurtured a coastal garden, trying to find hardy plants that would attract bees. My greatest successes were rampant “Hotlips” salvias and a vigorous ivy. The hum of the bees in late autumn as they arrived in great numbers to drink from the ivy flowers was just lovely. Traditional rhyming poetry is a challenge to me, but if the topic is gentle, it is a lot of fun.
A PLEA FROM A BEE
The thrum of my silver wings will charm and calm you,
See my yellow and black striped coat and you’ll feel warm!
My tireless work in our fields and orchards feeds you,
Spreading golden pollen so seeds and fruit can form.
Please spare me a thought when you choose your garden plants,
I crave early drinks at snowdrop and hellebore.
Pansies, primroses and irises make me dance,
Lavender, sweet peas and penstemon I adore!
Fuchsia, salvia and poppies do delight me –
And remember the sweet bloomers latest of all.
Honeysuckle, asters and sedum nourish me,
And I love ivy flowers on a sheltered wall.
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Photo by Hilary Aleski
