Flowering wild plants to promote beneficial insects in the field

Zurich-Reckenholz, 05. Pollinators and beneficial insects contribute to a rich harvest in many crops. But in agricultural crops these insects do not always find enough food. Agroscope experts have shown for the first time which flowering plants are especially important for pollinators and beneficial insects in the course of the year. Around two thirds of the pollen in these insects' food comes from wild plants. Wild bees help to pollinate agricultural crops. However, crops do not bloom all year round: intensively managed meadows, for example, turn into flowerless deserts for pollinators when they are mowed.