Topical Tips
For March 2003
Above all else - make sure that colonies have enough food. See tips for February on feeding.
Do not be in too much of a hurry to inspect colonies. Whilst it is a good idea to have a look under the crownboard if a colony is light, brood frames should not be taken out unless it is 'shirt sleeve weather'. Chilling brood in the early part of the season will set colonies back and exacerbate chalk brood. If a hive feels heavy and there is pollen going in on fine days, then leave well alone unless the weather is warm and the wind light. Even then, work quickly and with as little smoke as possible - remember that the colony is trying to build up in time to gather your crop - do not hinder them!
If colonies have died out, provided that there is no sign of foul brood and the combs are worth saving, clean out any dead bees and then sterilise the combs with 80% acetic acid ready for later use. (I have acetic acid available if you need any).
Have you looked at your stored supers lately? Are they ready to use? What about the runners or castellations - now is a good time to fix any that are coming adrift. Are all the frames in good order?
Monitor varroa levels and make a decision whether or not spring treatment is necessary. Bayvarol or Apistan can be used at any time and thymol can be used as soon as we get some warm weather.
Do not be in too much of a hurry to remove mouse guards - the bees will cluster on cold nights and mice will certainly take advantage and move in!
Woodpeckers may also attack hives if we have any very cold weather, so leave the defences in place where they may be a problem.
Add a super to strong colonies towards the end of the month so that they do not become too crowded. Lack of space at this stage is a factor in early swarming.
Peter Edwards 01/03/2003
