This month we're looking back to Spring 1998, when Lapwing contributor Jennifer Newton wrote a beautiful reflection on the power of gardens to support native bees. Over 25 years later, her message still feels as fresh and as urgent as ever.

In this article, Jennifer shares her garden observations from her own garden: the sight of queen bumblebees buzzing low over the soil in early spring, searching for nesting spots; the delicate red mason bee filling nooks and crannies with mud; and the quiet joy of discovering how many different species rely on flowers that bloom right outside our doors. 

Even in the 1990's, Jennifer raised concerns about the loss of traditional meadows and the growing importance or urban spaces. Her call to action was simple: by planting a range of nectar-rich flowers and leaving wild corners undisturbed, we can all give bees a better chance to thrive. 

Fast-forward to today, and Jennifer's message is more relevant than ever. The pressures on pollinators have intensified from pesticides and habitat loss to the effect of climate change.

Movements like No Mow May, bee hotel installations, and pollinator-friendly planting schemes are becoming common features in gardens, schools, and community spaces. Even small changes - like letting dandelions bloom or planting lavender in a window box can offer vital support for bees. 

What hasn't changed is the essential role that gardens play. As Jennifer's article so clearly reminds us, these spaces are more than just for people - they're stepping stones for wildlife. 

From her garden in 1998, Jennifer recorded sightings of species like the early bumblebee (Bombus pratorum), the red-tailed bumblebee (Bombus lapidarius), and the long-tongued garden bumblebee (Bombus hortorum) whose favourite plant included comfrey, foxglove and honeysuckle.

She also highlighted the importance of solitary bees like the red mason bee, which nests in cavities and seals its cells with mud. Leaf-cutter bees, she noted, make their nests using perfect circles cut from rose and honeysuckle leaves.

These tiny details are not just charming - they're practical guidance, even today. If you're planting for pollinators, consider:

• Native wildflowers like knapweed, birds-foot-trefoil and oxeye daisy.
• Tubular blooms like foxglove and comfrey for long-tongued bees.
• Flat, open flowers like yarrow and marjoram for short-tongued species.
• Sheltered spots for solitary bees to nest safely.

1. Let it grow - avoid mowing your lawn or verge this month and let wildflowers take the lead.
2. Plant for pollinators - choose a variety of native, nectar-rich flowers that bloom from early spring to late summer.
3. Create bee-friendly homes - add a bee hotel, drilled logs, or leave undisturbed patches of bare soil for ground-nesting bees.

Your garden, balcony, or window box can be a lifeline for bees.