Just a few drops and the impact can be greater than we expect. A new Finnish study shows that common household insecticides can disorient bumblebees so much that some are unable to return to their nests. And the consequences can negatively affect the entire garden.
Bumblebees are among the most important pollinators that ensure the harvest of many crops and ornamental plants. Their ability to find their way back to the nest is key to the survival of the entire colony. Once this natural instinct is disturbed, the impact is quickly felt not only on the bumblebees themselves, but also on the entire ecosystem.
Bumblebees are among the most important pollinators in the garden and their protection is therefore extremely important. Watch the video to learn much more about these insect helpers:
Subtle interference with natural orientation
A Finnish study draws attention to the influence of substances commonly contained in household insecticides. These preparations have, but at the same time can interfere with the nervous system of bumblebees. Even low doses can affect their ability to navigate in space.
Research has also shown that those exposed to these substances return to the nest less reliably. The drop in “return” can reach up to five percent, which may not seem dramatic at first glance. In practice, however, this unfortunately means that some of the workers simply never return and the colony gradually weakens.
The problem also lies in the fact that bumblebees often come into contact with insecticides indirectly. Therefore, even one treated surface in the garden or near the house is enough. Although the effect is inconspicuous and overall slow, it can significantly disrupt the functioning of the entire nest in the long term.
What this means for your garden
A weaker colony of bumblebees simply means fewer pollinators in your garden, and this can be reflected in a lower yield of fruits and vegetables, as well as poorer growth of ornamental flowers. Bumblebees are among the best pollinators, who are able to work even in colder weather, when other types of insects limit their activity.
It is also interesting that the problem does not only concern large agricultural areas. Small gardens and balconies also play an important role, where insecticides are used quite often. It is here that a subtle but constant impact on local bumblebee populations can occur.
When less is more
The possible solutions are not at all complicated. The reduction of chemical products and the search for more gentle alternatives can therefore have a greater impact than one might think. Every garden becomes part of a wider environment in which bumblebees look for food and a safe haven. Therefore, only one small change in attitude is enough, and the space around us can remain alive, colorful and full of buzzing life.
