NOVEMBER 2022
Well this weather is just not right – far too warm and my bees are flying every day still, when normally at this time of the year they will be tucked up in a cluster.
With this in mind, it is important to keep an eye on stores, because in this weather the queen is likely to still be laying, the bees are flying yet nectar and pollen sources are declining (or soon will be!). So stand by with some fondant ready just in case.
Also make sure your hives are protected from the elements and wildlife as appropriate – just check they are ok once in a while, in case your bees need your help.
What’s going on in the hive?
The older bees will be dying out and the new young bees bred in September and October will sustain the colony through the long winter months. The queen will still lay eggs through the winter, so you should see bees bringing in pollen on warmer days.
What’s in the larder?
The leaves are turning now at last but on meandering round my garden today I found quite an array of flowers still going strong and available to a passing pollinator.
Enjoy your beekeeping… now onto cleaning up all that kit… I am giving my bee suits a good clean now the season is properly over, to try and get that propolis off them ready for the spring. Then on to preparing for the Farnham show! If you haven’t entered before, why not give it a go?
