The Apiary Year - February
- Egg laying may be starting - but slowly.
- Heft the hive
- Are there wax crumbs on the landing board or removable floor?
- Wax crumbs indicate that stores are being used.
- On a removable floor look for a line of wax crumbs.
- This can show where the cluster is
- Add fondant blocks if needed.
- Warm days will be used for cleaning flights.
- The equivalent of getting up to go to the loo at night!
- Make certain there is water available.
- Try to put this in the sun.
- Cold water will chill the bees.
- They need water to be able to use fondant.
- If it snows do not clear the entrance:
- Bees will not suffocate with open mesh floors
- Bees will not suffocate with ventilated roofs
- Bees won't find food if the snow has covered the flowers.
- Bees will be enticed out by the bright light
- Bees will soon get cold and not get back.
- When the snow melts it is safe to go out.
- Prepare equipment for a busy year.
- Make up frames but do not put wax in yet.
- Expect to spend about one hour a month on each hive.
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