The Bounty of Pacific Northwest Berries

The Pacific Northwest boasts a variety of edible berries, such as Oregon grape, black currants, elderberries, and thimbleberries. Among these, the renowned Marionberry stands out; this particular berry is a cultivar of blackberry developed by the USDA Agricultural Research Service at Oregon State University in 1945. Oregon produces a staggering 28 to 33 million pounds of Marionberries each year. However, it's essential to note that Marionberries come from one of the region's most invasive plants: the Himalayan blackberry. Originating from Armenia and northern Iran, these blackberries have earned a reputation as a noxious weed, particularly in Washington and Oregon west of the Cascades.

The Gardener's Nightmare

For Seattle gardeners, Himalayan blackberries are a persistent challenge. Their long, thorny vines can easily tear through gloves and clothing, making them a dreaded foe in any garden. The plant's ability to reproduce rapidly from even a small root fragment complicates eradication efforts. Moreover, seeds can lie dormant for years before sprouting. This tenacity allows the plant to thrive in both dry and wet environments, spreading its seeds through animal consumption of its fruit. The Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board has recognized Himalayan blackberry as an aggressive invasive species since 2009.

Harvesting and Baking with Blackberries

Local foragers often gather these wild berries, which are tangy yet sweet, reminiscent of Marionberries. They are used in various culinary creations, including pies, and sold at farmer’s markets. While many restoration ecologists advocate for the removal of this invasive species, beekeepers hold a different perspective.

The Introduction of Himalayan Blackberries

The arrival of Himalayan blackberries in Seattle can be traced back to Luther Burbank, an eccentric seed collector who was captivated by the plant's rapid growth and large fruit. Unfortunately, he overlooked its invasive characteristics. (It’s worth noting that Burbank also held controversial views on eugenics, influenced by his plant-breeding endeavors.)

Honey Bees and Himalayan Blackberries

Honey bees, introduced to North America for their pollination services, find the flowers of Himalayan blackberries irresistible. During their month-long flowering period, these plants can produce thousands of blossoms that attract bees with their abundant pollen and nectar. While many beekeepers support the growth of native flora, they also prioritize ensuring their bees have adequate food sources during the peak flowering months of July and August. The nectar and pollen from Himalayan blackberries often find their way into honey, allowing beekeepers to market ‘Marionberry’ or ‘Blackberry’ honey at local markets.

Foraging Patterns of Beekeepers

In Washington, beekeepers rely on three main flower sources: maple trees in May, Himalayan blackberries in July, and knotweed in August. Both blackberry and knotweed are known invasive species that dominate the region's landscapes. Surprisingly, some beekeeping organizations, like the Puget Sound Beekeepers Association, have even recommended the planting of invasive plants, including Himalayan blackberry, on their lists of desirable flora. A paper presented by a master beekeeper to the Washington State Beekeepers Association even argues for reconsidering the classification of Himalayan blackberry as a noxious weed, given its advantages for honey bees.

The Complex Relationship Between Bees and Weeds

The assertion that bees benefit from weeds is not unfounded. Numerous studies indicate that many weedy species help support local native bee populations, particularly in disturbed environments. Both social and solitary bees visit these invasive plants for food and to gather pollen for their colonies. However, promoting the cultivation of these invasive species—some of which cost millions in removal efforts—raises questions about ecological sense.

While native bees do visit Himalayan blackberries, replacing these plants with native flowering species could likely enhance native bee populations. Importantly, there’s no evidence to suggest that honey bees would face adverse effects from such a transition.

The Impact of Beekeeping on Native Bees

Unfortunately, the practice of beekeeping with non-native European honey bees poses a threat to native bee species. These honey bees compete for resources and can transmit diseases and parasites to wild bee populations, leading to a detrimental impact on local ecosystems.