The Project Apis m. seed mixes available to Seeds for Bees enrollees and for purchase are designed to bloom at critical times of the year when natural forage is scarce. When planted in an orchard the Seeds for Bees seed mixes are dual purpose; they meet the needs of both beekeeper and grower.
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PAm Mustard Mix
If increased organic matter, water infiltration and vigorous colonies are preferred the PAm Mustard Mix will work great. If weather conditions cooperate it will start blooming in December/January and trigger colonies to initiate their annual population increase sooner. Some growers have also used this mix to control soil nematodes pests. Allowing this mix to reach maturity and reseed inside an orchard is not recommended. Click here for PAm Mustard Mix details and planting instructions |
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PAm Clover Mix
If erosion control and increased nitrogen is desired the PAm Clover Mix will do the job. This mix will begin blooming in February/ March. A successful stand of this legume mix can fix about 80 lbs. of nitrogen per acre. The delicate, brittle nature of clovers make it a good choice to encourage reseeding. Annual reseeding clovers will not become a weed issue. Click here for PAm Clover Mix details and planting instructions |
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*New* PAm Soil Builder Mix
This mix is brand new for the 2019-2020 Seeds for Bees season. Containing brassicas, legumes, and grains this mix combines attributes from the PAm Mustard Mix and the PAm Clover Mix into one convenient blend. The canola and common yellow mustard provide an early source pollen for pollinators, as their strong tap roots break up compacted soil. The hair like roots of the bell beans and peas help prevent soil erosion while fixing nitrogen. They will also provide a late source of nectar for pollinators like the PAm Clover Mix does. Grains are added to this mix for the benefit of the soil and weed suppression capabilities. Oats and triticale were selected over species like rye due to their heavy root structure. In most cases this mix will create less biomass and be easier to terminate than the PAm Mustard Mix. It is ideal for vineyards as well as orchards. Click here for PAm Soil Builder Mix details and planting instructions |
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Vetch
Vetch, another legume, blooms later than all the other Seeds for Bees options. Its fine root hairs are excellent at stabilizing the soil surface and preventing erosion. A successful stand can fix more than 100 lbs. of nitrogen per acre. The “vine like” growing habit of this species allows it to work well if blended with small grains like triticale, rye, or oats. Vetch should not be broadcasted in young orchards as it may grow up the tree trunks. It is not recommended to allow this species to reseed inside an orchard. Click here for vetch details and planting instructions |
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PAm Honey Bee Wildflower Mix
A wildflower mix will add a pleasing aesthetic to any farm, orchard, backyard, or apiary. This diverse mix of flowers will ensure months of colorful blossoms that will please any nearby bees. While well suited to hot and dry climates like California summers this mix is not ideal for planting inside orchards. We recommend using the PAm Mustard Mix, PAm Clover Mix, or Vetch if maximizing soil and bee health benefits are a priority. Click here for PAm Honey Bee Wildflower Mix details and planting instructions |