Mar 27, 2025 | Wildlife
Bees are some of Georgia’s most essential pollinators, yet they face increasing threats from habitat loss, pesticides, and climate change. For homeowners looking to cultivate beautiful and eco-friendly gardens, planting bee-friendly plants can provide a non-toxic environment for these critical pollinators, all while enhancing the vibrancy of backyard spaces.
This blog explores the best bee-friendly plants for Georgia gardens, including native flowers, beneficial herbs, and flowering trees and shrubs. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting your green-thumb journey, these plant recommendations will help you create an inviting habitat that supports pollinator health.
Recommendations: Bee-Friendly Plants
Why Plant a Bee-Friendly Garden?
Before we dig into plant recommendations, it’s important to highlight why bee-friendly gardens matter:
- Pollination Power: Bees are responsible for pollinating over 75% of flowering plants and nearly 35% of the food crops we eat.
- Supporting Biodiversity: Planting for bees cultivates ecosystems that support a variety of pollinators, birds, and other wildlife.
- Healthy Landscapes: Bee-friendly gardens eliminate the need for harsh pesticides, creating healthier spaces for homeowners and pets.
By including the right plants, you enable bees to thrive while also enjoying a more stunning, productive backyard. Now, let’s explore the best options for your Georgia garden.
Native Flowers for Pollinators
Georgia’s climate is rich in biodiversity, making it an ideal environment for native flowers. These plants naturally thrive in the region’s soil and climate while offering crucial resources to native bees.
1. Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)
Purple Coneflower is a favorite among gardeners and pollinators alike. With its daisy-like petals and vibrant purple hue, this perennial attracts numerous bee species, including bumblebees and carpenter bees. It’s hardy, drought-resistant, and blooms throughout summer, providing lasting nourishment.
- Sun Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
- Bloom Period: Summer to early fall
- Benefit: Supports both honeybees and native bees
2. Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)
Known for its golden-yellow petals and dark centers, Black-Eyed Susan is a pollinator magnet. These vibrant flowers not only attract bees but also support butterflies and songbirds.
- Sun Requirements: Full sun
- Bloom Period: Summer to early fall
- Benefit: Easy to grow and resilient in Georgia’s warm climate
3. Coreopsis (Coreopsis spp.)
Coreopsis, often called “tickseed,” is a cheerful perennial that thrives in Georgia gardens. Bees love their bright yellow flowers, which bloom prolifically when exposed to full sunlight.
- Sun Requirements: Full sun
- Bloom Period: Spring through fall
- Benefit: Long-lasting blooms and minimal maintenance
4. Lavender (Lavandula spp.)
Lavender serves a dual purpose in gardens, offering a soothing fragrance to humans and a rich source of nectar to bees. Its tall, purple flowering spikes are irresistible to a variety of pollinators.
- Sun Requirements: Full sun
- Bloom Period: Late spring to early summer
- Benefit: Deters pests while attracting bees
5. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
While most people grow basil for its culinary uses, it’s also a bee-loving herb if allowed to flower. Its small clusters of white or purple blooms provide nutrients for pollinators throughout the season.
- Sun Requirements: Full sun
- Bloom Period: Summer
- Benefit: Combines garden aesthetics with kitchen utility
6. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Rosemary’s evergreen foliage and tiny blue blooms make it a favorite in Georgia gardens—both for pollinators and gardeners. Its flowers can appear even in winter, providing much-needed nectar during colder months.
- Sun Requirements: Full sun
- Bloom Period: Winter to late spring
- Benefit: Thrives in Georgia’s well-draining soils
Flowering Trees and Shrubs for Pollinators
Flowering trees and shrubs create a stunning visual centerpiece in your yard while offering significant benefits for pollinators. These larger plants serve as vital food sources and shelter for bees in your region.
1. Redbud (Cercis canadensis)
One of Georgia’s most beloved native trees, the Redbud graces gardens with its vibrant pink blossoms in early spring. Its flowers are among the first food sources for bees after winter hibernation.
- Sun Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
- Bloom Period: Early spring
- Benefit: A crucial pollinator food source after winter
2. Tulip Poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera)
The Tulip Poplar, often referred to as the “bee tree,” features distinct yellow-green flowers that are highly attractive to bees. This towering tree is a staple for pollinators looking for abundant nectar.
- Sun Requirements: Full sun
- Bloom Period: Late spring
- Benefit: Provides large amounts of nectar for honeybees
3. Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora)
Nothing captures the beauty of Southern gardens quite like the Southern Magnolia. Its large, fragrant white blossoms are not only a visual feast but also a rich nectar source for native pollinators.
- Sun Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
- Bloom Period: Spring and summer
- Benefit: Supports bees while adding elegance to your landscape
Tips for Maintaining a Bee-Friendly Garden
After selecting the right plants, the following tips will ensure your Georgia garden remains a bustling bee haven:
- Avoid pesticides and herbicides, as these chemicals can harm bees and other beneficial insects.
- Incorporate a mix of plants that bloom at different times to provide year-round nectar.
- Include shallow water sources like birdbaths or dishes filled with water and pebbles for hydration.
- Allow some plants, like herbs, to flower to attract pollinators.
By implementing these practices, you’ll create not just a beautiful garden, but a thriving ecosystem that supports pollinators in the Georgia region.
Create Your Bee-Friendly Oasis
Bee-friendly gardening is more than just a trend—it’s an investment in the environment and the future of pollinators. By planting native flowers, herbs, and flowering trees and shrubs, you’re building a sanctuary for bees while enjoying vibrant blooms, fragrant herbs, and a healthier landscape.
If a beehive has ended up in an unwanted place on your property, our honeybee experts are here to help! Contact our team for eco-friendly pest control solutions to protect both your home and these essential pollinators.
Mar 25, 2025 | Florida Green Pest Control
Pest problems can feel like a never-ending battle, especially in Naples, where the warm, humid climate creates the perfect breeding ground for unwelcome critters. While conventional chemical pesticides might provide a temporary fix, they can pose significant risks to your health, your home, and the environment. The good news? Eco-friendly pest control solutions are not only effective but also sustainable and less-toxic. Check out our green pest control tips for use in your Naples home.
Green Pest Control Tips
Why Choose Eco-Friendly Pest Control?
Before diving into the tips, let’s discuss why eco-friendly pest control is the way to go. Traditional pesticides often contain harmful chemicals that linger in your home, garden, and even the local water supply, putting both your family and wildlife at risk. By opting for green pest control methods, you can protect your home without compromising your health or the environment. Whether you’re protecting your Naples home or contributing to environmental preservation, adopting these green strategies can be a win-win!
1. Embrace Natural Solutions for Pest Control
Natural pest control focuses on using non-toxic techniques to manage pests safely, without harming your family, pets, or the environment. Here are a few simple ways to implement natural methods effectively:
- DIY Natural Sprays: Create your own pest-repellent sprays using ingredients like vinegar, lemon, and essential oils. Some examples include:
- Citrus Spray: Mix water with citrus peels or citrus oil and spray in areas where ants or roaches are active.
- Peppermint Spray: Combine peppermint essential oil with water to repel spiders. These sprays disrupt pests’ sensory abilities without any harmful side effects for you or the planet.
- Introduce Beneficial Predators: Let nature do the work for you by releasing beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, into your garden. These insects prey on harmful pests like aphids and mites. You can easily find these insects online or at your local garden store.
- Use Diatomaceous Earth: Diatomaceous earth is a non-toxic powder made from fossilized algae that dehydrates pests like ants and cockroaches without harming humans or pets. It’s a natural way to manage pests while keeping your home chemical-free.
Embracing natural pest control methods allows you to avoid introducing toxins into your home while effectively keeping pests at bay.
2. Seal Entry Points to Keep Pests Out
The best way to deal with pests is to prevent them from entering your home in the first place. By sealing potential entry points, you can dramatically reduce the likelihood of an infestation.
- Regular Inspections: Pests often invade through tiny cracks and gaps. Regularly inspect the following areas for potential entry points:
- Windows
- Doors
- Foundation
- Roof vents
- Plumbing and utility lines
- Install Weatherstripping and Door Sweeps: Gaps under doors and around windows can serve as highways for insects. Install weatherstripping and door sweeps to block their access, while also improving your home’s energy efficiency.
- Repair Cracks and Holes: Use caulk or sealant to repair any cracks in your walls, around windows, and in the foundation. Pay particular attention to areas where plumbing or utility lines enter your home, as these are common access points for pests.
Sealing entry points is a simple yet powerful step to minimize pest problems before they start.
3. Create a Pest-Repellent Garden
Your yard can be transformed into a natural barrier against pests. By planting certain eco-friendly plants, you can deter insects and rodents while creating a beautiful garden space.
- Pest-Repelling Plants: Here are a few plants known for their ability to repel pests:
- Lavender: This fragrant plant deters mosquitoes, moths, and flies.
- Mint: Known to repel ants and mice, though it should be planted in containers to prevent it from spreading too aggressively.
- Citronella: A well-known mosquito repellent, citronella grass and citronella-scented plants can keep mosquitoes at bay.
- Strategic Garden Design: Plant these pest-repellent species near high-risk areas, such as entryways, patios, and vegetable gardens. This reduces the likelihood of pests making their way indoors.
- Attract Pollinators: Plant flowers like marigolds and sunflowers to attract beneficial pollinators, such as bees and butterflies. These insects not only support the local ecosystem but indirectly assist in pest control by promoting plant health.
By incorporating these eco-friendly plants into your garden, you’re not only enhancing your home’s beauty but also creating a pest-resistant outdoor space that supports sustainability.
Take the Eco-Friendly Pest Control Challenge
Living in Naples doesn’t mean you have to accept pests as part of the deal. With these green pest control tips and experts near you, your home can remain a healthy environment for your family while minimizing harm to the planet. From natural sprays and beneficial predators to sealing entry points and planting pest-repellent gardens, these solutions are both simple and effective. Contact a pest control company near you today for a free quote.
Mar 24, 2025 | Wildlife
Bees are some of the hardest working creatures out there. They pollinate flowers, fruits, and vegetables, making our gardens grow and keeping our food supply strong. If you’re living in Metro Atlanta and want to welcome more bees to your yard, it’s easier than you might think! By making a few small changes, you can create a bee-friendly yard that helps these vital pollinators thrive. Here’s how.
Tips For A Bee-Friendly Yard
Why Bees Need Our Help
Bee populations have faced many challenges over the years—things like habitat loss and climate change. Without bees, a lot of the plants we rely on for food and beauty wouldn’t thrive. Creating a bee-friendly yard is one-way homeowners can make a big difference. Even small adjustments on your property can provide bees with the resources they need to keep buzzing and pollinating.
Easy Tips for a Bee-Friendly Yard
Not sure where to start? Here are some simple steps to transform your yard into a haven for pollinators.
1. Plant Native Flowers and Shrubs
Native plants are like a bee’s favorite restaurant—they provide the perfect food and habitat. Bees especially love plants that produce nectar and pollen, so consider adding a variety of flowers, shrubs, and trees that bloom at different times of the year to feed them throughout the seasons.
Some great options for Metro Atlanta include:
- Black-eyed Susans
- Purple Coneflowers
- Sunflowers
- Milkweed
- Goldenrod
Having a mix of colors, shapes, and sizes will also attract a wider variety of bees and other pollinators.
2. Skip Chemicals
Bees are highly sensitive to pesticides, herbicides, and other chemicals. Instead of using traditional weed killers or harsh sprays, try natural alternatives. For example:
- Use mulch to suppress weeds.
- Try plant-based or homemade pest deterrents.
- Welcome helpful bugs (like ladybugs) to keep pests under control.
Going chemical-free is not only better for bees but also for your entire backyard ecosystem. Look for green pest control options!
3. Provide Fresh Water
Bees get thirsty too! Add a simple water source to your yard, but make sure it’s bee-friendly. A shallow dish of water with pebbles or floating wood pieces will help bees drink without risking them getting stuck. Change the water regularly to keep it fresh.
4. Keep It Messy (Sometimes!)
While we love a well-manicured yard, bees appreciate a bit of wildness. Allow part of your garden to grow naturally, leaving wildflowers or clovers to sprout. You can even create a small “bee corner” filled with pollinator-friendly blooms and plants that don’t need much trimming.
5. Build a Bee Hotel or Habitat
Not all bees live in hives like honeybees. Many, like bumblebees and solitary bees, make their homes in the ground or inside hollow stems. Consider leaving some bare soil or building a small bee “hotel” from wood, bamboo, or other natural materials. It’s a fun project and a great way to attract nesting bees.
Extra Benefits of a Pollinator-Friendly Yard
The best part of creating a bee-friendly yard is that the effort pays off in more ways than one. Bees will love your yard, and you’ll benefit too! Here’s how:
- More Blooms: Pollinated flowers produce more blossoms, giving your garden extra color and beauty.
- Better Vegetables and Fruits: If you grow a garden, bees will help your crops flourish, resulting in bigger harvests.
- Eco-Friendly Practices: Supporting pollinators means helping the environment and contributing to a healthier planet.
Taking the First Step
You don’t need to overhaul your entire yard to make it bee-friendly. Start small by planting a few native flowers or setting out a water dish. Little changes can make a big impact over time.
If you’d like more tips or professional help with creating a bee-friendly space, or if you need assistance managing an unexpected hive, reach out to your local bee relocation company. They’re there to support you and the bees, making your yard both beautiful and welcoming for pollinators!
Mar 22, 2025 | Community News, Company News
The Catoosa County Chamber of Commerce Business Hall of Fame recognizes individuals whose dedication and service have left a lasting impact on the local community. This year, two outstanding leaders—Marilyn M. Helms and Lee Tubbs—have been honored for their significant contributions to business, education, and community service.
Marilyn Helms: A Legacy in Education & Leadership
Marilyn Helms retired in December 2024 after an impressive 25-year career at Dalton State College, where she served as Dean of the Wright School of Business. Her leadership was instrumental in securing AACSB Business Program Accreditation, overseeing a $10 million renovation of Gignilliat Hall, and launching a bachelor’s degree in Logistics and Supply Chain Management.
Beyond higher education, Helms has played a vital role in community health initiatives, serving as Chair of the CHI Memorial Board, where she has been a driving force behind bringing a new hospital to the region. Her dedication to both education and healthcare exemplifies a true commitment to community betterment.
Lee Tubbs: A Pioneer in the Pest Control Industry
A respected leader in the pest control industry, Lee Tubbs founded Enviroguard Pest Solutions in 1997 with a mission centered on quality, integrity, and service. His company quickly became known for its exceptional service and dedication to customer satisfaction.
A former Catoosa Chamber Board Chair, Lee’s impact extended far beyond his business. He recently merged Enviroguard with Northwest Exterminating, ensuring the company’s continued growth and extraordinary service in pest management. His decades of industry leadership also earned him a well-deserved induction into the Georgia Pest Control Association Hall of Fame. At Northwest, we are proud to honor Lee’s legacy and celebrate his contributions to both our company and the communities we serve.
Alongside his wife, Lee has been a fixture in the community, embodying a spirit of service that goes beyond business. Together, they have built a reputation for customer-first values and a commitment to giving back—principles that have guided their success over the years.
A Lasting Legacy
Both Marilyn Helms and Lee Tubbs have profoundly shaped Catoosa County, leaving legacies that will be felt for generations to come. Whether in education, business, or community leadership, their extraordinary contributions have made the region a better place to live and work.
We celebrate Marilyn and Lee’s incredible achievements and look forward to seeing how they continue to inspire and impact the community in the years ahead!
Mar 20, 2025 | Wildlife
Bees are essential to our ecosystem. They pollinate flowers, fruits, and vegetables, making them integral for Tennessee’s lush gardens and thriving agriculture. However, typical pest control practices often inadvertently harm these invaluable insects. As a Tennessee homeowner, balancing pest control with environmental responsibility is a challenge—but not an impossible one. This guide focuses on bee-friendly pest control practices that help protect these vital pollinators while keeping your home and garden pest-free.
The Importance of Bee-Friendly Pest Control
Why Protecting Bees Matters in Tennessee
Bees are not just important for the environment—they contribute directly to the economy of states like Tennessee. From pollinating crops like apples, watermelon, and pumpkins to supporting wildflower blooms that benefit local wildlife, bees play a huge role. Unfortunately, widespread pesticide use has been a key contributor to the decline of bee populations. This decline could have dire consequences for agriculture and biodiversity.
But with a few mindful changes to your pest control approach, you can support pollinator health while maintaining your home’s comfort and well-being. Read below to find out how!
- Spray Pesticides in the Early Morning or Late Evening
When using pesticides, the timing of your application is one of the most critical factors for bee protection. Bees are most active during the daytime—typically from mid-morning to late afternoon. Applying pesticides during these peak hours increases the likelihood of exposing them to harmful chemicals. To minimize the risk, consider scheduling treatments in the early morning or late evening when bees are less active.
Instead, opt to spray pesticides:
- Early morning before the sun has fully risen and bees begin foraging.
- Late evening after bees have retreated to their hives for the night.
By targeting these times, you reduce the chances of directly affecting bees while ensuring pests are still managed effectively. You can also ask your local pest control company if they can accommodate bee-friendly application times to further protect these important pollinators.
- Choose Bee-Ethical Products Labeled as Non-Toxic to Pollinators
Not all pesticides are created equal. Some are formulated to minimize harm to beneficial insects like bees. When choosing a professional pest control company, look for those explicitly labeled as “bee-protected or “non-toxic to pollinators.”
Here’s what to avoid and what to consider:
- Avoid: Broad-spectrum insecticides such as neonicotinoids, which are highly toxic to bees.
- Use:
- Natural products containing neem oil, which target pests while posing minimal risk to pollinators, are a great option. Partnering with a green pest control company that prioritizes honeybee protection ensures the use of eco-friendly solutions.
- Organic treatments like insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils, designed for ethical pest management, can effectively control pests while keeping pollinators safe.
These products allow you to take care of garden pests without risking the health of your local bee population. If in doubt, consult a pest control professional who prioritizes environmentally-friendly solutions.
- Spot-Treat Problem Areas Instead of Blanket-Spraying
Blanket-spraying your entire yard is not only unnecessary but also harmful to the environment. This approach increases pesticide exposure for non-targeted species, including bees. Instead, focus on spot-treating problem areas where pests are concentrated.
How to spot-treat effectively:
- Identify high-pest areas (e.g., near plant roots, under leaves, or by entry points into the home).
- Apply pesticides directly to these areas with precision.
- Use the smallest effective dose to control the infestation.
Spot-treating is a more targeted strategy that minimizes collateral damage to bees and other beneficial insects.
- Leave Some Flowering Plants Untouched for Bees to Forage
Bees rely on flowering plants for food, so when applying pest control measures, it’s crucial to leave a portion of your yard bee-friendly. Reserving areas of blossoming plants untouched by pesticides creates foraging zones for pollinators.
To encourage a pollinator environment:
- Plant native flowers that bloom throughout the year. Favorites in Tennessee include purple coneflower, black-eyed Susan, and bee balm.
- Designate a bee garden—a no-spray zone where pollinators can forage without interference.
- Avoid spraying flowering plants directly.
By creating these havens, you ensure that bees can continue to thrive, even while managing pests elsewhere in your yard.
Bonus Tips for Tennessee Homeowners
Incorporate Companion Planting
Companion planting involves pairing specific plants that naturally repel pests with your garden crops. For instance:
- Marigolds deter aphids and beetles.
- Lavender repels flies and moths while attracting bees.
This natural method not only reduces your need for chemical pesticides but also supports pollinator activity.
Avoid Mowing Flowering Weeds
While dandelions and clovers may be considered weeds, they’re important food sources for bees. Limiting mowing in areas where these plants grow allows pollinators to access vital nutrients, particularly in early spring.
Partner with Eco-Friendly Pest Control Services
For a sustainable pest control approach, partner with an eco-friendly company that prioritizes honeybee protection. Many services in Tennessee offer solutions that target pests while keeping pollinators unharmed. Homeowners can help by adjusting pesticide timing, choosing non-toxic treatments, and creating foraging zones. If a beehive ends up in an unwanted spot, contact our honeybee experts to responsibly rehome it.
