The leaf cutter bee is a fascinating insect. If you see one in your garden watch its antics, rather than be worried about its presence or try to control it.
Description
The leaf cutter bee is a native bee that cuts pieces of plant leaves to line its nest.
Symptoms
Quite large, semi-circular notches taken cleanly from the side of rose, beech and other shrub leaves.
Treatment and control
Don’t begrudge these useful and fascinating animals a waterproof nest, so controls are unnecessary. They are solitary bees and won’t sting you.
If you can track down the nest then a potted beech placed strategically close may provide all the nesting material they need without attacking your roses.
