Meet the group who want to make us the best city in the UK for bees

24% of Europe’s bumblebee species are now threatened with extinction, despite being worth a staggering £690 million per year to the UK economy.

But there’s a group who are hoping to create beautiful places where bees can thrive.

The Orchard Project aim to keep Manchester as the best city for bees in the UK.

Garden on a Roll

Garden on a Roll has partnered with The Orchard Project to transform a disused bowling green into a vibrant community garden at Longsight, Manchester.

The perennials being donated by Garden on a Roll offer varying bloom times, ensuring a continuous supply of nectar and pollen throughout the seasons, which is crucial for the survival of bees.

Garden on a Roll and the Orchard Project

Dedicated horticulturists at Garden on a Roll have partnered with The Orchard Project, the only national charity dedicated to the creation, restoration and celebration of community orchards, to donate and plant a series of wildlife-friendly borders.

The project is benefiting the group called ‘SNUG’ Sustainable Northmoor by Urban Greening.

The donation of herbs like rosemary, lavender, thyme, plus various bee-friendly perennials such as Leucanthemum, achillea (yarrow), and penstemon will be provided and planted by wildlife designer and Garden on a Roll founder Antony Henn.

The Bees of Manchester

Bees have been an iconic symbol of Manchester for over 150 years, so it’s not surprising that in a recent study, it was revealed that Manchester is the best city for bees in the UK based on metrics such as green spaces, number of flower gardens and allotments.

However, with the declining numbers of bees across the UK: “the IUCN list shows that as many as 24% of Europe’s bumblebee species are now threatened with extinction, despite being worth a staggering £690 million per year to the UK economy”.

The decline in bee populations not only threatens the essential pollination of numerous crops, impacting both biodiversity and the economy but also serves as a critical indicator of the overall health of our ecosystems.

Garden on a Roll is also proud to be a Perennial partner, this is the UK’s only charity dedicated to assisting everyone in the horticulture sector through life difficulties, this includes both retirees and their dependent families.

This collaboration highlights their commitment to nurturing not just gardens, but also the well-being of those who have devoted their lives to horticulture.

“We are immensely grateful to Garden on a Roll for their generous donation of plants, which are vital to our mission.

“This contribution not only enriches our community spaces but also plays a crucial role in supporting local ecosystems and biodiversity, particularly in nurturing the bee populations in Manchester.

“Their presence is essential for pollination and maintaining the health of our local environment, aligning perfectly with our commitment to the environment and the local community.”

Elsa Little – Greater Manchester Project Manager

“We are thrilled to collaborate with The Orchard Project, contributing to a greener future.

“Our donation reflects our dedication to community spirit and environmental awareness, reinforcing the belief that together, we can create sustainable, vibrant spaces for everyone to enjoy.”

To find out more about Garden on a Roll’s work in the gardening industry, please visit their website

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