BUMBLE-BEES AS POLLINATION ASSISTANCE

Why a good pollination is important

A good pollination and a high fructification raise the harvest and improve the crop quality. Nevertheless both depend on many factors, e.g. crop structure, fertilization, growing of enough pollen dispensers as well as the presence of adequate insects which transfer the pollen. Both, pollination and fructification take place within a few weeks. During this period of time it is important to create the best conditions such as the optimization of pollination by a targeted use of insects such as bumble-bees. Bumble-bees assure you a good start into the new season.

7 reasons why to decide for the use of bumble-bees:

1st: Bumble-bees “work” also at bad weather conditions

• Bumble-bees are already active at 8°C, whereas honey bees start between 15 and 18°C
• Bumble-bees fly on cloudy days too
• Bumble-bees fly at wind velocities up to 70 km/h, whereas honey bees at maximum 30 km/h.

2nd: Bumble-bees are loyal to their habitat. Bumble-bees do not communicate as distinctive as honey bees therefore they normally stay at their culture instead of searching for a more attractive one.

3rd: Bumble-bees are more efficient in pollination as honey-bees. They collect more pollen than nectar and transmit more pollen from the pistils. Moreover bumble-bees change more often between trees or bushes.

4th: Unlike honey-bees, bumble-bees let the blossom vibrate, which for some crops, such as blueberries, is necessary to lift the pollen.

5th: Unlike honey-bees, bumble-bees “work” more efficient in roofed or semi-roofed terrain since it helps them to orientate.

6th: Bumble-bees are peaceful animals. They sting only when they get irritated.

7th: Bumble-bees can be combined very well with honey-bees.

Which bumble-bee colonies shall be used?
Depending on the area of use and the culture there are different sizes and species of bumble-bees. A normal bumble-bee colony consists of 400-500 bumble-bees, which need to be introduced 8 to 10 days before the blooming.

What is a TRIPOL?

A TRIPOL contains three big bumble-bee colonies. It is rain- and weather resistant, well isolated and ventilated – so bumble-bees can work very efficiently. Therefore it is perfect to use on a pumpkin field with approx. 1 ha of acreage.