Even in late fall, it’s important to take a quick look inside your hives. With just a few simple steps, you can safely check food stores and population without stressing the bees—even on chilly days. A fast 30-second inspection can reveal exactly how your colony is doing heading into winter.
Strengthening weaker colonies is one of the most rewarding skills in beekeeping—and one of the most practical. By transferring brood, bees, and even foragers from a booming hive to one that’s fallen behind, you can jumpstart recovery and set the stage for winter success.
Hive inspections don’t have to be overwhelming. Learn the difference between quick hive checks and full inspections, what to look for (like brood health, pests, and space needs), and how to take action based on what you find. Practical, seasonal tips to help you keep your colonies thriving year-round.
Learn how to help your bees survive the summer dearth with smart feeding, pollen supplements, and reliable water sources. Spot the signs of stress, prevent robbing, and keep your hive healthy through summer's toughest conditions.
Got a Grumpy Hive? Here’s How to Handle It Before It Handles You
Every beekeeper eventually meets a hive that’s more hostile than helpful. Whether it’s genetics, bad weather, or a missing queen, understanding why your bees are acting out is the first step to calming them down. This article breaks down the common causes of aggressive behavior—and walks you through how to safely split and requeen a hot hive without losing your cool (or your bees). 🐝💥
It might be blazing hot outside, but your bees are already thinking ahead to winter. What you do in the next few weeks will make a big difference in how well they make it through. In this article, we cover several key areas beekeepers need to watch closely during this critical time of year.
