The Pretty IKEA DIY That Is Highly Attractive To Pollinators

The news for bees is not getting any better. Currently, more than 20% of North America's pollinators are at risk of extinction, and many of them are bees. Considering their role in providing food for us, this is pretty grave. If there's an easy way to give bees a leg up, let's do it by putting together inexpensive, simple watering dishes for them. Drinking stations for these hard-working bugs are easy yet vital parts of a pollinator garden. Not only do they need to hydrate their tiny bodies, but water sources also help them cool off on steamy days. They also transport water back to their hives to feed baby bees and to dilute their honey. With a frightening portion of North America experiencing drought, bees could definitely use an accessible source of fresh water, and you can give them one with this DIY using materials from IKEA.

IKEA has a promising collection of shallow bowls that boast low prices, durable materials, and looks you'll proudly show off. With the addition of safe perches in the water for the insects, our buzzing helpers can get a much-needed drink from something you won't mind having tucked among the plants in your garden. YouTuber Tara Besore shared a simple bee waterer DIY on the channel Hammer & a Headband. Besore spotted modern charcoal gray plant pot saucers at IKEA that made subtle yet lovely pollinator waterers once they were filled with stones for the bees to rest on and drink safely. A package of Dollar Tree's Polished Black River Rocks spread over the tray, surrounded by an inch or so of water, gave bees a pleasant landing spot, and its earthy looks melded well into its natural surroundings.

Something to consider for your bee drinking station is the color of both the stones and the dish. Just like how light tones are the best colors for shade sails to keep your patio cool, it might be a wiser choice to pick dishes and stones in lighter colors. Bees are sensitive to high temperatures. Even though there doesn't appear to be solid evidence of this, bees' feet could be harmed by extreme heat when landing on dark-colored surfaces in the same way asphalt in summer can burn dogs' paws. Whether or not this is a genuine concern, darker containers do absorb more heat from the sun, both heating the water and making it evaporate more quickly. Also, check out these guidelines for creating a watering station for your local bees that include the best locations and maintenance.

The exact saucer Besore purchased is no longer available, but IKEA has no shortage of equally pretty and capable items with similar dimensions. You can choose a large, shallow dish or tray made of ceramic, glass, or food-safe plastic (in case of leaching). A close match in design and minimalist appeal, the DAGGASTER Plates have a 10-inch diameter and a raised lip ideal for holding liquids. These stoneware plates come in gray or beige for an affordable $3.99 each. Gain an inch and a half of diameter and a slightly deeper basin for only $1 more with the VITBLECKA Plate. Made of white tempered opal glass, this glossy tray would look striking and stay cool(er) when lined with light-colored or white stones.