How to help bees through winter

They're at their busiest in spring and summer, but the UK's declining bee population still needs your help throughout the winter

● Resist the temptation to remove ivy. Leave it to flower, as it's a vital source of nectar, often the last for honey bees before they cluster in the hive for winter.

● Plant fruit trees to blossom next spring. Apples, pears and plums are best.

● Plant out early spring bulbs, such as snowdrops and crocuses.

● They're important for honey bees when they take their first flight out of the hive after winter.

● November is the perfect time to plant hedges. Box hedging is great for bees when it flowers in spring. Shrubs, such as berberis and viburnum, will also provide plenty of food in the spring.

● Adopt a beehive through the British Beekeepers' Association. For £29.50 you'll support a hive of 50,000 bees and fund research into the threat to honey bees. You'll receive honey and regular updates. Call 0871 911 1818 or visit www.adoptabeehive.co.uk.

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