March Beekeeping Tips
In and Around the Hive
This is the month of the colony's minimum adult population, after the winter loss, before spring build-up. The queen should be laying at or near full strength and brood is being reared if pollen/protein is available.
At this time bees might be able to bring some pollen into the hive once in a while foraging flights, but nutritional needs increase and the risk of starvation is high as the population is growing and there are limited external resources.
Equipment
Your equipment should be paint, cleaned, fixed assembled or purchased by now.
Yard Maintenance
As you did in January and February, make sure your hive cover is secured properly, check for pests and watch for ice blocking the entrances. Once again, do not worry about a few dead bees around the hive.
Nutrition
The need for nutrition increases this month and the risk of starvation is high. Feed them if the hive is light or the stores are empty. You can feed them Pollen Patties
The location/proximity of the bees to their food source is key. If your cluster is far to one side if the food stores, you can carefully move it closer, keeping it together as you do so.
Plan to rear queens? Lavishly feed the cell finisher colony chosen in the fall (carbohydrates and protein) for early spring buildup.
Education
We will be having another Beginner Beekeeping, class see below for details.
Check for bee meetings with local bee clubs. We have a list of them on our website at:
https://www.letitbeeinc.com/pages/beekeeper-associations-clubs
