Master Gardeners learn about bees

Washington County Master Gardeners met at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 28, at the extension office. There were 18 Master Gardeners, two interns, and one guest present.

Ron and Carol Wehr from West Chester gave a presentation on honey bees. Ron has been a beekeeper for 27 years. The bees are his livestock and he works to keep them healthy and productive. He described the equipment he uses, how to protect yourself from the bees, the honey bee life cycle, and the fact that pollination is their greatest asset.

Ron suggested that people plant flowers and crops that bees like. Flower examples are: poppies, trumpet vines, autumn clematis, sedum, yarrow, coneflower, and Datura. Fruit trees, clover, and even dandelions are sought after by the bees. Bees can travel as far as two miles to find food. There are about 50 producers in southeast Iowa that raise bees. Carol passed around a container with honeycomb for everyone to try.

After the presentation everyone introduced themselves and said how they use honey.

During the business meeting there was discussion on the planting to be done around the small stage at the fairgrounds, the rain barrel that still needs to be installed, and attending one of the next fair board meetings. Dianne Nelson and Sheila Gerot gave an update on the hosta that the Washington County Master Gardeners will be selling with all proceeds going to the Iowa Lions Eye Bank. The program for the year was reviewed. Millie Youngquist provided a variety of snacks and apple cider. The meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m.