I'd like to buy some spring-flowering heather for the bees. Is all spring-flowering heather here in southwestern BC, pollen and/or nectar rich? I only want it for the bees that are out and about this early in the season. I do try to stay away from the hybridized flower selections in general, as they are no good to the bees.
Look at stock at local outlets on a day when bees are active, see if any kinds are drawing them there. If this produces no result, then check some local plantings for bees. Winter-blooming heathers are prevalent in plantings on and near public routes here, where one could snip flowering sprigs without others being likely to take offence. These can be compared with stock at outlets, to look for matches.
Thanks Ron! Not too many bees about at this time, but I will try to check at more nurseries if we happen to get any more decent days.
