DIY Bee Drinking Station: A Simple Summer Craft That Helps Pollinators Thrive

Summer is a busy season for bees. As they travel from flower to flower collecting nectar and pollen, they also need access to clean water. During hot weather, bees use water not only for drinking but also to help regulate the temperature inside their hives.

Unfortunately, many natural and man-made water sources are too deep for bees and other pollinators. A simple bee drinking station provides a safe place for bees to land, rest, and drink without the risk of drowning.

My daughter and I created this bee drinking station using a terra-cotta flowerpot, a saucer, colorful marbles, fresh water, and a copper purification disk to help keep the water cleaner throughout the summer.

Why Bees Need Water

Most people know that bees need flowers, but many don't realize that they also need water.

Worker bees collect water to:

• Stay hydrated

• Cool the hive during hot weather

• Maintain proper humidity levels inside the hive

• Support developing larvae

Providing a shallow water source can be especially helpful during periods of heat and drought when natural water sources may be scarce.

Supplies Needed

• 1 terra-cotta flowerpot or sturdy planter

• 1 shallow terra-cotta saucer

• Glass marbles, decorative stones, or pebbles

• Fresh water

• Copper purification disk (optional but recommended)

Copper Purification Disk

To help keep the water cleaner, we added a copper purification disk to our bee station. Copper has natural antimicrobial properties that may help reduce algae and keep water fresher between cleanings.

You can find a similar copper disk here:

https://www.theaudubonshop.com/product/copper-bird-bath-purification-disk/

Note: Copper disks do not replace routine cleaning and water changes. Be sure to rinse and refill your bee station regularly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Create the Base

Turn the flowerpot upside down and place it where you would like your bee station to sit.

Step 2: Add the Saucer

Place the terra-cotta saucer securely on top of the flowerpot.

Step 3: Add Marbles or Stones

Fill the saucer with marbles, decorative glass gems, or smooth pebbles.

The marbles create safe landing spots so bees can drink without falling into the water.

Step 4: Add the Copper Disk

Place the copper purification disk beneath some of the marbles or along the edge of the saucer.

Step 5: Add Water

Pour water into the saucer until it reaches about halfway up the marbles.

The tops of the marbles should remain exposed so bees have a dry place to stand while drinking.

Step 6: Choose the Perfect Location

Place your bee station:

• Near flowers or a garden area

• In a location that receives morning sun and afternoon shade if possible

• Away from heavily traveled walkways

• Where it can be easily monitored and refilled

Step 7: Maintain Your Station

Check the water level regularly, especially during hot weather.

Refresh the water and rinse the saucer as needed to keep the station clean and inviting for pollinators.

Flowers That Help Feed Bees

While a bee station provides water, flowers provide the nectar and pollen bees need for food.

Best Flowers for Sunny Gardens

These pollinator favorites thrive in full sun:

• Zinnias

• Lavender

• Coneflowers (Echinacea)

• Black-Eyed Susans

• Bee Balm

• Salvia

• Sunflowers

• Cosmos

• Coreopsis

Best Flowers for Shady or Partly Shady Gardens

If your yard receives more shade than sun, consider planting:

• Astilbe

• Coral Bells (Heuchera)

• Hosta

• Cardinal Flower

• Lungwort (Pulmonaria)

• Foamflower

• Woodland Phlox

• Turtlehead

What About Begonias and Impatiens?

Begonias and New Guinea Impatiens are beautiful choices for shaded gardens. Although they are not considered major nectar plants, bees can still benefit from having a nearby water source. Bees are excellent at locating water and often return to reliable sources throughout the summer.

A Fun Family Nature Project

Creating a bee drinking station is an easy and meaningful way to support local pollinators while spending time together outdoors. Children can help gather materials, arrange the marbles, refill the water, and observe the bees and butterflies that visit.

By providing both water and pollinator-friendly flowers, even a small garden can become a valuable habitat for bees and other beneficial insects.

Happy gardening and happy bee watching!

🐝🌼💧

Have you created a bee drinking station? We'd love to hear about your experience in the comments below!