Bees boost strawberry and raspberry crops in Shedfield

Westlands Farm in Shedfield, near Wickham, has introduced 25 new hives of honey and bumble bees to improve pollination and support the health of its raspberry and strawberry crops.

The hives were supplied by Strides New Forest Honey, who also collect and process the honey produced by the bees.

Graham Collett, owner of Westlands Farm, said: "Using both bumble bees and honey bees enables us to maintain a really healthy strawberry and raspberry crop.

Westlands produces raspberries and strawberries in glasshouses and polytunnels (Image: Westlands Farm) "They manage the nectar levels in the flowers, which supports stronger fruit development and helps reduce the risk of disease and mould.

"The honey they produce from our raspberry nectar is processed off-site and sold in our farm shop, completing a full farm-to-jar process."

Mr Collett explained that each type of bee plays a specific role in the pollination process.

Graham said: "The bumble bees play a vital role in pollinating the raspberry flowers.

The bees and their hives have been supplied by Strides New Forest Honey (Image: Westlands Farm) "The honey bees help manage excess nectar, which can build up as the fruit develops and increase the risk of mould."

Westlands Farm grows raspberries and strawberries in glasshouses and polytunnels, allowing for an extended harvesting season and helping to meet both local and national demand for fresh fruit.