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Leafcutter Bee Damage

Wow, these critters move fast! This morning I checked in on my greenhouse, watered my plants and left the door open. This afternoon I went back to check on them and my one Rajah chilli looked like someone had taken a hole punch to the leaves. While I was standing inside the greenhouse, various bees were flying in and out. I noticed a leafcutter bee (small with black and white/grey stripes) crawling into one of the flowers on the affected plant.
 
I thought I'd share the photos in case any new garderners experience similar damage and need help identifying it.
 
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The bee tends to quit cutting when it hits a vein on the leaf. They use the cut pieces to line their nesting holes.
 
They are harmless to plants and are excellent pollinators. The round cuts disturb some people, but I actually think it's quite beautiful!
 
I am delighted to have so many bees in my garden. I am considering building a bee hotel to host even more.
 
miguelovic said:
 
That's a wicked idea, helpful to me, annoying to neighbours. Win and win.
 
SA? Nice. Can't remember the last time I made koeksisters.
Haha, now why would you want to antagonise  your neighbours?
 
I've been seeing bee hotels crop up quite a lot in gardening magazines lately, with DIY instructions. Of course they've turned it into an art form on Pinterest.
 
You make your own koeksisters? Impressive! Where did you learn how to make them?
 
Prazzie said:
Haha, now why would you want to antagonise  your neighbours?
 
I've been seeing bee hotels crop up quite a lot in gardening magazines lately, with DIY instructions. Of course they've turned it into an art form on Pinterest.
 
You make your own koeksisters? Impressive! Where did you learn how to make them?
 
One good turn deserves another?
 
A former neighbour? Hah. An old friend of mine is from PE, she wasen't much of a cook at the time, so I had to learn a few new recipes. Melktert and such. Was good eats.
 
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