A “pollinator garden” with the aim of protecting the Maltese Honeybee and to increase pollination from butterflies and bees will be built in San Gwann following an investment of €300,000.

Marking World Bee Day on the 20th of May, the Ministry for Energy, Enterprise and Sustainable Development launched a project with the aim to protect the Maltese Honeybee and to increase the pollination from butterflies and bees, which is an important natural process for the production of fruits that we can eat and seeds that will create more plants.

The Pollination Garden project in San Ġwann was launched by Minister for Energy, Enterprise and Sustainable Development Miriam Dalli. The project is being done in collaboration with the San Ġwann Local Council and Parks Malta, over an urban area of 1,000 square metres.

Dalli explained that the sustainability of the project was also reflected in what it can offer in return to enhance the natural environment.

“It’s a different kind of project that will serve both for a recreational and educational space for the residents. Perhaps a few may know that honeybees pollinate 80% of our crops. Therefore, the plan of this project is to embellish an open space but also give back to the environment,” said Dalli.

Dalli added that this project will assist the public, especially children, to learn more about pollination and how it is vital for the food supply chain. The Minister encouraged the adoption of simple practices that can support in the cultivation of the Maltese Honeybee.

San Ġwann Mayor Trevor Fenech explained how the regeneration of this site will be a breath of fresh air to the residents. “This site was in a dilapidated state, often receiving reports of illegal waste disposal. With this project, San Ġwann residents will benefit from an open space and a pollination garden,’’ said Fenech.

Parks Malta will be assisting the local council in the planting, watering, pruning and maintenance of flowers and trees.

Adrian Attard, General Director of Parks Malta, explained that the planting of trees will help even further for bees to pollinate. The trees will consist of carob and almond trees, and Judas trees. “These trees were chosen with a purpose, as they have high levels of pollen. Such trees grow during different times of the year, and therefore bees will be able to pollinate throughout the year,” said Attard.

Other plants that will be planted in the garden, such as herbs, offer an aromatic smell. It also enhances the cultivation process, serving for the conservation and preservation of the bees through the cultivation of fruit and vegetables.