Hello all,
I saw a contraption made out of bamboo which was supposed to attract bumbles at a National Trust property. I am pretty sure I could make something similar but would like to know where to locate it on my plot and also the best plants to attract the little darlings.
Thanks for your time...
If it was a bundle of bamboos hung up somewhere that will attract solitary bees which nest in the hollow stems, but not bumbles. An upturned flowerpot with a chip in the rim to allow space for access, with a bit of slate on top to kep the rain out and a hanful of dead grass inside will do for bumbles.
robert,
I'm not sure about making them but I did receive a bumble-bee/lacewing box. You can buy them online such as http://www.grovelands.com/acatalog/Wildlife_Boxes_and_Insect_Houses.html (http://www.grovelands.com/acatalog/Wildlife_Boxes_and_Insect_Houses.html). I was informed that they had to face south in a sheltered location, so if you do manage to make one yourself then they should be put in such a location.