What is the best food for bees when nectar is scarce? The best food for bees when nectar is scarce is white granulated cane sugar mixed with clean water. During…
Hive Management
Keeping Ants and Pests Out of Your Beehives
The best way to protect beehives from pests and ants is to keep your bee colonies strong, place hives on elevated stands with oil moats on the legs, and use…
Why Are My Bees Absconding? Common Causes and Solutions
Your bees are leaving the hive because of one of two things: swarming or absconding. Swarming is natural. About half the colony leaves with the old queen to start a new home when…
How Often Should You Inspect Your Beehive?
You should check your beehive every 7 to 10 days during spring and summer. In fall, drop your inspections to once every 2 to 3 weeks. In winter, inspect your hive as little as…
Natural Ways to Treat and Manage Varroa Mites
The most effective way to treat varroa mites without chemicals naturally is by combining screened bottom boards, drone brood trapping, powdered sugar dusting, and deliberate brood cycle breaks. These mechanical…
