I'm sure you've wondered, Is all this feeding really that necessary? The answer: it kind of is! Feeding is one of the most critical elements to get right. Although populations will naturally decline due to the season, our bees are still raising baby bees needed to bring in a fall nectar flow. Just like we wouldn't leave our dogs or horses without adequate food, water, and shade during the summer, our bees need us too!

Blake Shook

Feeding syrup

For summer feeding, the goal is to maintain 30 pounds of excess honey in the second box and employ trickle feeding of about a quarter gallon per week. Adding a box of foundation allows bees to draw it out for future use. To minimize disturbance, you don't have to fully remove the second box when feeding. Watch this short video where I show you how easy that can be.

With nectar-producing flowers dying off in the heat, the concern shifts to ensuring adequate protein (pollen) for the bees. Inspecting frames for pollen stores is crucial. Lack of pollen can lead to unhealthy hives, affecting larval development and the future winter survival. The solution is supplementing with soft pollen patties, ensuring they are consumed promptly to prevent pest issues. Watch the video above as I explain how to identify and solve pollen dearth inside the hive.