THE Federal Government Pollination Program has called on Aussies to save local honeybees.
A new guide shows farmers can help boost the survival of honeybees by growing the right plants on their properties.
It lists the best pollen and nectar planting choices for farms, backyards and bushland to provide food for honeybees.
Pollination Program research and development advisory committee chairman Gerald Martin said the public was increasingly concerned about the wellbeing and survival of honeybees.
"Sixty-five per cent of agricultural production is reliant on pollination by bees to produce fruit, vegetables and seeds and honeybees are coming under increasing pressure from urbanisation, bushfires, and changing agricultural and land management practises," he said.
"Pests and diseases are an ever increasing threat, including the deadly bee pest Varroa mite, which has wreaked havoc across the globe."
The guide has been developed with funding from the Honeybee Program, managed by the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation.
Bee Friendly - A planting guide for European honeybees and Australian native pollinators can be downloaded free or hardcopies ordered from the RIRDC website at rirdc.gov.au/pollination
