10-Minute University™ is the trademark of short classes on essential gardening information. All presentations are free and each is accompanied by a handout. Oregon State University owns the trademark and Clackamas County Master Gardeners develop and manage the program.

Mason bees and leafcutter bees are solitary, non-aggressive, don’t sting, and quietly go about their business as prolific pollinators for fruit trees and vegetables. They require very little to make them happy, and they are active at different times of the year.  This class will explain how to host both mason and leafcutter bees. Topics will include:

• How and when to set out mason bees in the spring and leafcutter bees in the summer
• The environmental conditions for healthy bees
• Storing the cocoons
• How to clean cocoons and store them safely.

The class will also explore ways to encourage the many species of native, ground-nesting bees that are an important part of a healthy habitat. Approximately 70% of native bees nest underground, including the beloved bumble bees (Bombus sp.). A few simple steps can provide a garden where many species of bees can thrive.

Class speaker Leah Puhlman is an Oregon State University Extension Master Gardener who teaches for the award-winning 10-Minute University™ Program. Leah has years of experience working with mason bees, hosting them in her own garden and elsewhere. Her mason bee “herd” in 2022 numbered around 20,000!

This online seminar is free with advanced registration. Even if you cannot attend live, register anyway. A recording link will be sent 2 days after the class. Register here