observations as both are heavily visited by queens from multiple species. We also hope to plant a native plum this year. • Fall Gynes: In September, native Field Thistle and Showy Goldenrod are critical gyne food sources. Obedient Plant and Turtlehead are also good fall food sources, and have lovely fowers. By October, New England Aster is the only food source we found for gynes. 3. These are the most used summer fowers, listed by bloom time: • Early June through mid August- Greater and shrubby St. John’s Wort. • Early July through August- Monarda Fistulosa. • Early July though mid August- Culver’s Root and Mountain Mint. This is peak population time for RPBBs, and we think Culver’s Root is their most used food source during peak July. In a prairie full of blooming fowers, this is the RPBB top choice. As Culver’s Root starts to wane, Mountain Mint and Monarda rise more in importance. • Mid July to September- Spotted Joe Pye Weed, Anise and Giant Hyssop.
Recommended RPBB fower list : ❖ Dutchman’s Breeches ❖ Spring Beauties ❖ Gooseberry ❖ Currant
❖ Culver’s Root ❖ Mountain Mint ❖ Spotted Joe Pye Weed ❖ Anise Hyssop ❖ Giant Hyssop ❖ Native Field Thistle ❖ Obedient Plant ❖ Turtlehead ❖ Showy Goldenrod ❖ New England Aster
❖ Virginia Bluebells ❖ Virginia Waterleaf
❖ Shooting Star ❖ Wood Betony ❖ American Plum - (small tree)
❖ St. John’s Wort** ❖ Native Monarda
** https://www.nwf.org/NativePlantFinder/Plants/1707 for St. John’s Wort (or any other plant) native to your area.
You can reach me at jlcrlp@charter.net . For more Wisconsin bumble bee information, visit the Facebook page Wisconsin Bumble Bee Observers, and the Wisconsin Bumble Bee Brigade website.
Judy Cardin 12/10/22 3.
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