Applewood Seed Company, located in Arvada, Colorado, was established in 1965 and specializes in small to large-scale production of open-pollinated flower seeds. We pride ourselves in our commitment to supplying high quality seed by maintaining diligent standards in field production methods, seed testing, and our research trials. Our research includes flower types and mixes specifically formulated towards pollinators such as honey bees. Here are some ways that people and companies can give back and feed honey bees.
#1. Plant Honey Bee Flower Mix for the Home Garden
This mix is the result of many years of research by Applewood on honey bee flower preferences in our test garden. It is a blend of adaptable, annual and perennial flowers that provide nectar and pollen to honey bees. We include early, mid-, and late season bloomers so that wide variety of food is available to honey bees all season long. Good nutrition helps honey bees fend off infectious pathogens and pests. This mix can be used in garden beds, borders, and other maintained areas.
#2. Plant Custom Native Wildflower Mixes for Meadows, Fields, and Pastures
For beekeepers with many hives, a large foraging area for their bees may be desirable. We specialize in formulating custom mixes composed of wildflowers that are attractive to honey bees, and we will tailor each mix to your region and site conditions. Once established, these wildflower areas will persist without extensive maintenance and return every year to provide nectar and pollen for your honey bees.
#3. Hand Select Individual Flowers and Herbs for Your Garden
Applewood Seed carries seeds of many flowers and herbs that are highly attractive to honey bees. You can browse our selection of honey bee plants directly on our website. Some of our more popular honey bee plants include garden flowers and wildflowers such as Scarlet Cinquefoil, New England Aster, Autumn Sneezeweed, Corn Poppy, California Poppy and Prairie Clovers. Honey bees are also fond of the flowers of many herbs such as basil, catnip, chives, oregano, and wild thyme.
Applewood Seed Co. Wins 2022 Colorado Companies to Watch Award
The employee-owners of Applewood Seed Co. (ASCO) announce that they have been named a winner of the 2022 Colorado Companies to Watch (CCtW) Award. Last May, ASCO announced their place as a top finalist for the 2022 CCTW award and the 50 Winners were announced at the finalists Gala held on June 17th, 2022. The […]
Citizen Science Programs for National Pollinator Month
Even if you haven’t earned your Masters in Ecology yet, every American can contribute to pollinator conservation. In some cases, you need only a smartphone. “Citizen Science”, or the crowdsourcing of scientific information from the general public, has taken off in an effort to engage citizens in protecting declining pollinator populations. Planting a wildflower patch […]