Warm weather can leave bees exhausted and dehydrated as they struggle to find nectar-rich flowers – so a garden expert has shared a simple trick to help them recoverChris Bonnett and Joseph Wilkes Content Hub and General Assignment Unit
14:54, 07 Jul 2025
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Help bees in your garden this summer(Image: pskeltonphoto via Getty Images)
As the UK braces for more scorching temperatures this summer, Chris Bonnett, founder of GardeningExpress.co.uk, is offering a simple solution to help Brits care for weary bees struggling in the heat. We’ve already experienced some exceptionally warm weather over the past few weeks, with temperatures soaring above 34°C in London.
More sunshine is anticipated this summer and while many will welcome the heat, it can pose challenges for our wildlife and ecosystem, particularly when accompanied by such high temperatures for extended periods. With climate change leading to increasingly extreme heat for longer durations, it’s crucial that we adapt to these conditions – including taking care of our local wildlife. Bees, in particular, play an essential role in supporting our ecosystem.
In hot weather, they have to work much harder to locate nectar-rich flowers compared to spring. Long foraging flights deplete their energy and often leave them exhausted and dehydrated. This is why you may find many bees lying on the ground during the summer, attempting to regain their strength, reports the Express.
Many people mistakenly believe these bees are dead or injured, but this is often not the case. There’s actually a straightforward way we can assist them.
Simply mix two parts white sugar with one part water and place some next to the bee on a spoon or leaf. It’s important to avoid using honey, brown sugar or any artificial sweeteners as these can be harmful to bees. Avoid applying the mixture directly onto bees as it can startle and overwhelm them. It may take a few minutes for the bee to drink the mixture, recover, and regain its energy, so refrain from picking it up to prevent causing additional stress.
The bee should eventually regain its strength and fly away independently. If it doesn’t, consider moving it to a sheltered or covered area to protect it from foot traffic or predators.
To further support bees this summer, consider planting pollinator-friendly flowers such as lavender, foxgloves, echinacea, or late-blooming alliums. These plants serve as crucial food sources for bees. Providing a shallow dish of water with stones or marbles also offers bees a safe place to land and hydrate without the risk of drowning. Even a small container garden or window box can make a significant difference.
These small acts of kindness can have a profound impact. Bees play an essential role in supporting our natural world, maintaining our gardens and food systems. So, as we bask in the sunshine, let’s ensure we continue to care for our bees.