USU Extension - Salt Lake County

06/02/2026

🐝🌼 Pollinators in Utah: More Than Just Honey Bees

When we talk about pollinators, honey bees often get most of the attention—but they’re just one part of a much larger and incredibly important group.

Here in Utah, we’re also home hundreds of native bee species, along with butterflies, moths, beetles, hummingbirds, and even some flies that all play a role in pollinating plants.

🌿 Why this matters:

Native bees are often more efficient pollinators of local plants
Many native species are solitary and nest in soil, stems, or small cavities
A diverse pollinator community makes ecosystems more resilient

🌸 How you can help:
• Plant a variety of flowering plants that bloom from spring through fall
• Avoid pesticides during bloom whenever possible
• Leave some bare soil or natural areas for ground-nesting bees
• Provide water sources in dry months

Even small spaces—like patios, gardens, or schoolyards—can support pollinators.

By creating habitat, you’re not just helping honey bees—you’re supporting Utah’s entire pollinator community.

06/01/2026

I cannot think of a cheesier name than this - Love in a Mist. But luckily plants have at least 2 names for them. This Nigella damascene is absolutely breathtaking! What's Blooming in Your Yard?

06/01/2026

Check out this list of plants you can grow to help attract pollinators! 🦋🌼🐝 https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1907&context=extension_curall

05/30/2026

🐝 This spring has been very unusual for honey bees here in Salt Lake County.

With warm temperatures in March, freezing weather in April, and cool nights continuing into May, many colonies are not developing at a typical pace this year.

Here’s what that means right now:

Some hives built up early, then slowed during cold snaps
Others are still catching up from reduced spring forage
Even with warmer weather returning, nectar availability may still be uneven

👉 What to do:
• Check honey stores regularly
• Don’t assume natural nectar flow is fully supporting your hive
• Be ready to feed if colonies feel light or inconsistent

Every hive may be responding differently this season—stay flexible and keep observing closely.

05/27/2026

05/26/2026

The Salt Lake County Extension Office will be closed May 25, 2026 in honor of Memorial Day.

05/21/2026

🐝 This spring has been a wild ride for honey bees here in Salt Lake County!

With warm temps in March, freezing weather in April, and chilly nights into May, many honey bee colonies are a bit out of sync—and early blooms may not have provided the food they usually rely on.

👉 What does this mean for you?
• Check food stores—don’t assume nectar flow is strong
• Some hives may be thriving, others struggling
• Stay flexible and keep a close eye on hive health

Even though warmer weather is finally here, your honey bees may still need a little extra support.

Have questions about what you’re seeing in your hive? We’re here to help! 🌼

05/18/2026

Native bees are a sucker for this Firecracker Penstemon. What's blooming in your yard?

Sucker-see what I did there??? 🙂🙂🙂

05/15/2026