It isn't difficult to make your yard, garden or even patio space a haven for beneficial bees. You'll be helping these important insects, as well as bringing more nature to your back door.

The greater the plant diversity, the more bees and other wildlife your garden will attract and support (including both honey bees, which aren't native to North America and native bees like orchard mason bees). Always try to choose as many native plants as possible, and consult with local nursery staff or other experts to find vegetation that will thrive in your specific conditions.

And remember, the more bees you attract, the more your gardens will grow, since so many vegetables and flowers require pollination.

For more wildlife gardening tips, see National Wildlife Federation's gardening campaign or check out The Daily Green's tips for creating a bird garden.

Here is a partial list of tried-and-true bee attractors:

Related: Fair Trade and Organic Flowers to Buy Online

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