Does Canola Farming Affect Beneficial Insects?

Canola fields are habitat for an incredible diversity of beneficial insects such as bees, butterflies, spiders, wasps and beetles. These diverse insect groups help increase crop yields and provide a natural check on insect pest populations. Farmers use a wide range of tools such as crop rotations and detailed field scouting to protect these valuable allies. New technologies, such as seed treatments, allow farmers to target pests that damage canola seedlings while allowing beneficial insects to flourish. The seed treatments remain on the seed and are not released as dust into the air. 

Bees are attracted to the bright yellow canola flowers. The pollen from the flowers is an ideal food for honeybees while canola nectar provides a sugar source for honey production. Canola honey has a desirable mild flavor and light color. 

The bees, on the other hand, can have a positive impact on canola production helping to improve yields. Canola farmers work closely with beekeepers to protect bees and this mutually beneficial relationship. Over several decades, the number of acres seeded with canola and honeybee colonies have shared a linear increase in numbers. 

For more information, visit  Bees & Canola

Try these delicious recipes made with honey and canola oil!