What are the best wet summer management techniques
As a beekeeper in Canterbury, New Zealand, you’re likely facing challenges due to the cold and very wet summer we’re experiencing. The slow start to the honey flow can be concerning, but there are several steps you can take to support your bees while waiting for the weather to improve.
Understanding the Situation
In a typical New Zealand summer, January is usually a bustling month for bees. The colony should be growing rapidly, with the queen laying eggs at her peak rate and nectar flowing abundantly. However, this year’s unusual weather has disrupted the normal patterns, potentially affecting both hive strength and nectar availability.
Assessing Your Hives
Before taking action, it’s crucial to assess the current state of your hives:
- Hive Strength: A strong hive should have at least four full frames of brood in all stages (eggs, larvae, and capped brood) in an eight-frame setup.
- Food Stores: Check if your bees have sufficient honey stores. Remember, bees need about 25 kilograms of honey to survive the winter.
- Queen’s Presence: Ensure each hive has a young, vigorous queen. Her presence is vital for the colony’s growth and productivity.
Supporting Your Bees
Here are some strategies to help your bees through this challenging period:
1. Hive Management
- On a warm, still day, perform a comprehensive hive inspection.
- Consider reversing brood boxes to optimize brood distribution and stimulate colony growth.
- Ensure proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup, which can be detrimental in wet conditions.
2. Disease Prevention
Regularly check for signs of diseases like Chalkbrood, European foulbrood, or American foulbrood. A healthy hive is better equipped to handle challenging conditions.
3. Planting for Bees
While it won’t provide immediate relief, planting bee-friendly flora can help in the long run:
- Native plants like Cabbage tree (Cordyline australis), Manuka (Leptospermum scoparium), and Kowhai (Sophora microphylla) are excellent choices for Canterbury.
- Non-native options such as apple trees and bottlebrush can also provide valuable nectar and pollen.
4. Local Knowledge
Connect with other Canterbury beekeepers through local clubs or online forums. They can provide invaluable insights into local nectar flows and successful management strategies.
Looking Ahead
Remember, beekeeping is a practice in patience and adaptability. As the weather improves, keep a close eye on local flowering patterns. Native trees like Manuka and Kanuka, as well as clover in pastures, are significant nectar sources in Canterbury. By implementing these strategies, you’ll be giving your bees the best chance to thrive once the nectar flow picks up. Stay observant, be proactive, and your colonies will be well-positioned to make the most of the honey flow when it arrives.