Bee Gardening Classes

All classes are available as either remote-only ($25 registration) or hybrid remote/in-person ($40 registration). The remote instruction will be available on the class date. Hybrid classes feature additional hands-on experience and instruction. All proceeds support the Haven.

I Planted a Bee Garden: Now What?

April 1, 2023 9am to 10:30am

Instructor: Christine Casey, Ph.D., UC Davis Department of Entomology and Nematology

Many California gardeners are removing their water-hungry turf and replacing it with lower-water plants that provide food and habitat for bees and other animals. But if all you know about garden maintenance is how to start the lawnmower, deciding what to plant and learning how to maintain it can be daunting.

Aimed at beginning bee gardeners, this class will cover the basics of turf conversion and weed control along with plant selection for bees and other pollinators. We’ll also cover maintenance of a turf yard compared to planted borders.

Registration links: remote class or hybrid class.

Advanced Bee Gardening

April 22, 2023 9am to 10:30am

Instructor: Christine Casey, Ph.D., UC Davis Department of Entomology and Nematology

This class is for experienced gardeners who want to better support bees in their gardens. We’ll discuss garden design and plant selection based on bee biology as well as how to encourage insect natural enemies to keep bee gardens pesticide-free. We’ll also learn about some of the latest research on bees and gardens and how to incorporate this into your garden. The class will conclude with a tour of the Haven for a hands-on look at plants and bees.

Registration links: remote class or hybrid class.

Collecting Bees Through Photos

April 1, 2023 11:30am to 1pm

Instructor: Christine Casey, Ph.D., UC Davis Department of Entomology and Nematology

Bees are fascinating animals, and many people are intrigued by the idea of having their own bee collection for closer observation. An effective way to ‘collect’ bees without harm is by making a bee photo album. We’ll start with an overview of bee anatomy and classification and learn how to distinguish bees from other insects. We’ll then look at key features of common bees that can be used to identify them in flight. The class will finish outdoors for hands-on experience observing, identifying, and photographing bees.

Registration links: remote class or hybrid class.

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