Nature

Pollinators with a Purpose: The Vital Role of Bees in the Lowcountry

As spring blooms across the Sea Islands, including our own beautiful Kiawah River community, one of the most important seasonal workers is already hard at work—the bee. While they may be small, bees play a mighty role in our environment, gardens, and even the food we eat.

One of the biggest benefits of bees is pollination. As they move from flower to flower collecting nectar and pollen, bees help plants reproduce. In fact, over 70% of flowering plants and crops rely on pollinators like bees. This includes many fruits and vegetables we enjoy in spring and summer—think blueberries, cucumbers, squash, and strawberries, all of which are in season right now.

In a community like Kiawah River, where sustainability and local agriculture are woven into everyday life, bees are natural partners. We currently have 25 hives at Kiawah River, which are maintained by Mark Connelly from Edisto Honey. Bees help support both wild native plants and community garden crops, ensuring a healthy, balanced ecosystem.

Bees also support biodiversity. Their pollination efforts allow a variety of plants to thrive, which in turn supports birds, butterflies, and other wildlife that depend on those plants for food and shelter. It’s a domino effect that starts with a single buzz.

And let’s not forget the sweet bonus: local honey. Not only does it taste great, but raw honey produced close to home can help with seasonal allergies and is packed with antioxidants.

Unfortunately, bees are facing challenges from habitat loss, pesticides, and climate change. The good news? We can help—by planting native flowers, avoiding chemical pesticides, and supporting local beekeepers. Some great bee-friendly plants for your garden include milkweed, coneflowers, and native wildflowers.

This spring, take a moment to notice the bees buzzing among the blooms. They’re doing more than making honey—they’re keeping the Sea Islands thriving, one flower at a time.