Pollinating insects are crucial for the success of many food crops and natural habitats. Since the 1970's there has been about a 70% decline in bumblebees largely due to the loss of breeding and feeding sites.

Belmont support the Operation Bumblebee project promoted by Syngenta Plc and the Wildlife Farming Company. Under this scheme 1,100 hectares of bumblebee habitat has been established UK wide.

The results so far have been remarkable, with some areas seeing massive increases in bumblebee numbers including a measurable increase in the rare Bombus ruderatus. These quality habitats have seen similar increases in butterflies and small mammals to mention but two.

A key target of CFE is for large increases in areas of Pollen and Nectar plots and margins. The successful introduction of Pollen and Nectar sites will produce a rapid increase in insect numbers, however creating the correct mix of habitats and species is crucial to the long term sustainability of the increased numbers.

Key Pollen & Nectar Habitats targeted under the CFE:

• Floristically enhanced margins and grassland areas.
• Annual Legume Plots.
• Wildflower/Legume Plots 4-5 years.

Wildflower & Grass Mixes

• Economy Mix
• Floristically Enhanced Margin Mix

• Bombus Legume & Flower Mix
• Annual Pollen and Nectar Mix
• Grass and Legume Mix

Belmont wildflower seed mixes

Download the Belmont Wildflower Seed Mixes PDF here. It is provided in an Adobe Acrobat format - if you do not have the software to download it please download it by clicking here.