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September Beekeeping Tips
In the Hive
The queen's rate of egg laying slows and the brood area continues to contract.
Little drone brood is laid. This is the end of the 2nd swarm season that is smaller.
Resin Propolis collection continues but nectar sources will keep diminishing.
If left untreated, the Varroa mite population peaks this time of year.
The bees may be more defensive, protecting their hive and robbing other colonies.
Inspection
Queen's egg laying slows dramatically by the end of this month, so the brood pattern may be difficult to evaluate accurately.
You should have kept records for the entire season, but it is very important now as you prepare your hive for the winter. Take note of the number of bees/size of cluster, the amount/weight and position of honey store they have.
Bees may rob hives left open during a long inspection. Be thorough but efficient.
Nutrition
A full-sized colony should have at least 70-90 pounds of honey to eat by the beginning of October or more than one full deep. Estimate weight by slightly tipping and hefting the hive.
If you feed the bees sugar syrup, it should be a 2:1 ratio and thicker than the spring feed. The bees will need at least two double-sided frames of pollen/bee bread by late winter/early spring.
If the weather is dry this fall an you have limited water source near the hive, make sure to provide one.
Pests, parasites, and disease
Monitor Varroa mite levels and treat where needed. We have treatment at Let It Bee Inc.
https://www.letitbeeinc.com
Remove drone comb foundation for the remainder of the year.
Equipment
Removing bees from honey supers may require a fume board, bee escape, bee brush or other tools (https://www.letitbeeinc.com.
They each have advantages and disadvantages.
Let us know of any questions as you navigate your bee journey!
https://www.letitbeeinc.com
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