Lost Gardens of Heligan - Spring 2025 Update

March 2025

In the UK, the past few weeks have shown numerous signs of spring with snowdrops, crocuses, hyacinths, daffodils, and tulips starting to bloom, along with the blossoms of trees like cherry and apple. Wildlife has sprung into action as well, with busy entrances to bee nests as they industriously bring in the pollen.

So it was an ideal time to visit the Lost Gardens of Heligan where one of the NBKT projects is based.

We checked out the two Eco Tree hives first and they both showed signs of activity which was a very encouraging start to the day.

However when it came to the Latvian log hive it was a different story. A few scout bees were exploring the entrance but on closer inspection the nest space was empty. On the positive side the comb was fresh and intact , even with a slight scent of ivy honey. Although it's unclear as what caused the demise of the colony, we can console ourselves that nature is taking its course and I'm sure it won't be too long before a new swarm takes up residence to continue the cycle.

As well as highlighting the importance of free living bees in this project we also promote better bee husbandry methods through our natural beekeeping courses.

In addition to a 'hands off approach' to bee husbandry practices, it's also important to provide a habitat that considers the biological needs of the bees, something that many off the shelf conventional hives fail to do. In our small demonstration apiary we took the opportunity to install a new Top Bar Hive to accompany the thriving Layens hive.

The TBH has been constructed with the local climate in mind with well insulated roof and walls and a 9cm deep eco floor. There is also an observation window to reduce the temptation to open up the hive for curiosity's sake.

The Natural Beekeeping Trust will also be holding a couple of Bee Day events at the gardens this summer, 18th July & 22nd August. This will be a good opportunity to come and meet the team and talk about all things bees. Hopefully the Latvian Log hive will be occupied by then so you can come and see free living bees doing their thing.

The event is free and included with your garden entry ticket.

 Simon Kellam = Trustee