Cultivated Crop Plants


 Citrus is a major honey plant in Florida, although
the quality and quantity of nectar may vary consider-
ably each year. Orange appears to produce more nec-
tar than other varieties of citrus and the resultant
honey is distinctive in flavor and aroma. Citrus may
bloom as early as February and as late as April (aver-
age bloom date is March 15). Under ideal conditions,
the flowers may last as long as four weeks. A second
flowering may occur in June, but is not as heavy or
as reliable as the one in the early spring.
 Several other cultivated crop plants show promise
as nectar sources in Florida, especially those that















Ornamental Plants


produce well in other parts of the United States, but
little information exists on exact conditions neces-
sary for maximum nectar secretion. Following is a
partial listing of plants that should be investigated
by beekeepers with regard to bee visitation and con-
ditions (e.g. temperature, rainfall) for maximum nec-
tar production: alyce clover, avocado, blueberries,
(Hubam) sweet clover, clover (crimson, red, white),
cowpeas, cucurbits (cucumbers, watermelons,
squash, pumpkins, cantaloupes), hairy indigo, lespe-
deza, mangoes, snapbeans, birdsfoot trefoil and
vetches.


 In both urban and rural areas, planting nectar-
yielding ornamentals can provide bees with food
resources necessary for colony maintenance. In some
cases, these plants may even provide surplus honey.
A selection of ornamental plants is listed here along
with abbreviated information on propagation and
where in Florida they should be planted (N, C and
S refer to north, central and south, respectively).


Trees
 American holly, Ilex opaca Ait., N-C-S, is an excel-
lent nectar source, blooming in early spring.
 American redbud, Cercis canadensis L., N-C, is a
small tree that can be transplanted or propagated
from seed. It blooms in the spring.
 Chinese holly, Ilex cornuta L., N-C, is a dark green