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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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 |