[A. Fallowfield]

I have just dug over a patch close to my shed (the side facing east) and am wondering what to plant there. My bumble bee nest box is on the right and I intend to plant bumble bee friendly flowers around it, but I would like something bee friendly in the larger bit. I'd like something productive too; am I asking too much for a shady spot?
Any ideas?

[RichardA]

Runner beans
R

[A. Fallowfield]

Runner beans
R

I've actually have St. George runner beans to go in, picked for their attractive flowers. Trouble is I've set up a wigwam for them in a sunnier spot! 

[Trillium]

They're not productive as such, but bumblers love snapdragons as other bees can't easily get inside them. A climbing cherry tom would still do well in this area. Cukes prefer a bit of shade and green peppers don't mind some shade either.

[madcat]

Low level or don't you mind the line of sight being blocked?

[Salmo]

Some of the species of bumble bees make holes at the base of runner bean flowers and take the nectar without pollenating the beans. Honey bees will also use these holes to rob the flowers. Look at your runner bean flowers this year and you will find holes at the base.

http://www.jstor.org/pss/2401637

Advice on species to plant

http://www.bbc.co.uk/gardening/basics/techniques/organic_bees1.shtml

http://organic-flower-gardens.suite101.com/article.cfm/plants_to_encourage_bees_in_the_organic_garden

[A. Fallowfield]

Low level or don't you mind the line of sight being blocked?

Fairly low level, don't want to obstruct my nieghbours light. The tree in the foreground is a bramley on a MM106 root stock, so in a few years time it'll block a bit of light!

I like the climbing tomato idea, I already have snapdragon and vipers bugloss seeds for the pots around the bee box.

[A. Fallowfield]

If I can get the right plants, I'm going with the cherry tomato idea!
Jumped the gun as usual!