Most assuredly for plants that honey bees work, such as cucumbers, cataloupes and watermelons! Other species of bees may be better for other plant species - bumblebees are better for tomatoes and peppers. Squash bees are better for squash and pumpkins.
I have five beehives about 100 feet from my garden. But I've also made my garden a haven for all bee species. I provide nesting sites, a water supply, and plants that provide continuous nectar and pollen sources throughout the growing season. Most important, I provide protection from pesticides.
People talk about planting to "attract" bees. This is too limited a plan. Planting a nectar-rich plant near my cucumbers will simply attract the bees right past my cucumbers - if the pollinator populations are weak, as they are in many areas. My plan is an overall plan to build pollinator populations back up to what used to be normal levels - this will ensure enough competition at the blossoms so that ALL blossoms will get worked.
