March Field Notes

     
​      IN THE HIVE:
      - The queen should be laying heavily now.
      - Brood is being reared if pollen is available.
      - Adult population is lowered due to winter losses.
​      -A limited number of foraging flights might occur.
      INSPECTION & NUTRITION:
      - This month, the hive should have 3 or 4 combs full of  honey. Feed the colony if the stores are empty, or if bees are visible at the top of the hive through the inner cover. 
- Feed with dry sugar, candy board or capped honey combs. 
- Feed with pollen supplement patties to stimulate egg laying.
- Continue feeding until pollen or nectar are available and bees are able to forage outside.
EQUIPMENT & PEST MANAGEMENT:
- Mite population will start to rise in the colony, no treatment yet in the colder northern areas. 
- Equipment should be ready to go now. 
BEE YARD & ENVIRONMENT:
-Make sure the hive cover is secure. 
- Don't be alarmed if you see dead bees around the outside of the hive, the bees are doing some spring cleaning. 
BLOOMING NOW:
-Pussy Willow
- Crocus
- Witch Hazel
- Silver Maple
- Dandelion

---