While not much was known about Berthold Woltze, what he was known for was his genre paintings of scenes of everyday life and people in their environment. It was often with a touch of realism that offered a window into the lives of his subject matter.
Terrifying Facts:
80% of native wild bees nest in dead plant stems.
A single stem can harbor up to 20 pollinator larvae.
Cutting back too early destroys six months of bee development.
Wild bees do pollination work worth €2000 per garden.
What really lives in your "messy" garden:
Hidden Dwellers:
- Mason Bee Cocoons
- Leaf Cutter Bee Nests
- Native wasp larvae
- Eggs of useful predatory insects
- Important areas that should be protected:
- Hollow plant stems
- Leaf pile
- Standing perennials
- Conjunctions
How you can help:
* Wait until May to clean the garden.
* Let the stems stand at least 40 cm high.
* Create piles of rice.
* Mark areas as pollinator zones.
Your action plan:
* Stop all clean-up work until the temperatures are constantly above 10°C.
* Bundle cut stems and store them securely.
* Set up "pollinator corners" in the garden.
* Educate neighbors about the importance of protection.
Natural gardens save bees – everyone can contribute!
