Calgary offers bee tree discount to help support pollinators

The City of Calgary is offering discounts on trees to help save local bees.

From now until Sept. 1, customers can print a coupon to save 10 per cent on a tree purchase from a participating retailer.

"Trees and bees have a really nice, harmonious relationship," said Tammy Robinson, ReTree project manager with the city.

Trees are a kind of one-stop food shop for bees. They provide a huge and dense supply of nectar, which makes it easier for bees to build up stores that can be turned into honey.

Bees in turn help pollinate not only the trees, but shrubs, flowers and other plants, Robinson said. 

Some of the trees that bees are most attracted to include:

• Wolf Willow 
• Crabapple
• Lilac
• Red Elder 
• Maple
• Russian Olive