80 BEGINNER'S BEE BOOK 



to in an emergency, but there is nothing equal 

 to natural pollen for brood rearing. The suc- 

 cessful beekeeper always studies the honey and 

 pollen sources of his locality. 



There are many plants that furnish both 

 honey and pollen, while there are others that 

 furnish only one. Many of the plants which 

 furnish pollen in greatest abundance furnish no 

 nectar at any time. 



The corn plant furnishes pollen in great 

 quantities, yet the blossoms do not secrete nec- 

 tar. The bees are said at times to secure a 

 sweet substance from the base of the leaves, 

 and since aphids are sometimes found on the 

 plant, honey dew, which is an insect excretion, 

 may be gathered from this source. Ragweed, 

 elm, etc., are also valuable sources of pollen. 



DiFFEREXCES IX Seasox\ — There may be 

 an abundance of blossoms of the best honey 

 plants and yet, in some seasons, the bees will 

 get but little honey. Just what conditions in- 



