As the winter chill sets in, many beekeepers may find themselves longing for the warmer days when their beloved bees were buzzing around the hive. However, winter doesn't have to be a dormant period for beekeepers. In fact, there are plenty of tasks and activities to keep you engaged and your bees thriving even during the colder months. In this blog post, we'll explore some tips and activities to help you stay busy and connected with your buzzing companions throughout the winter.
Winter Hive Inspections
Just because it's cold outside doesn't mean you can neglect your hive inspections. Winter is an ideal time to check on the health of your bees and assess the condition of the hive. Take a moment to ensure that your bees have sufficient food stores and that the hive is adequately insulated. Inspecting for signs of diseases or pests is crucial during this time to address any issues before they become more significant problems in the spring. Click the image below to watch David Burn's YouTube video on inspecting in the winter time!
Monitor Hive Weight
One way to gauge the well-being of your colony is by monitoring the hive's weight. A hive with enough honey stores should feel heavy when lifted. If you're uncertain, consider investing in a hive scale. Regularly checking the hive's weight allows you to intervene if your bees are running low on food, ensuring their survival through the winter. Check out Laurence Henderson's YouTube video on how to heft a hive. This is what we do at A&W Apiaries!
Educate Yourself
Winter provides an excellent opportunity for beekeepers to expand their knowledge. Dive into books, articles, and online resources to learn more about beekeeping techniques, hive management, and the latest research in apiculture. Stay informed about potential challenges your bees might face and explore new methods to enhance their care.
We love YouTube - its free, educational, and you can hear from beekeepers themselves! We recommend
Prepare for Spring
Winter is the perfect time to plan for the upcoming spring season. Consider your goals for the next beekeeping season, whether it's expanding your apiary, trying out new hive designs, or experimenting with different beekeeping techniques. Use this time to order supplies, plan your garden, and set achievable targets for the coming months.
Consider investing in a planner! The spring months will be here before you know it and you don't want to get caught off guard. We recommend this planner from Amazon (an affiliate link) so you can see your multiple years at a time!
Craft Bee-related Products
Get creative during the winter by making bee-related products. Use beeswax to create candles, balms, or even homemade soaps. Not only is this a fun and rewarding activity, but it also allows you to utilize your hive's products in diverse ways. Amazon has many molds you can try... we have used molds like these with great success in the past. It just depends on what you are looking for!
Build or Upgrade Beekeeping Equipment
Take advantage of the off-season to build or upgrade your beekeeping equipment. Whether it's constructing new hive boxes, painting equipment, or improving hive stands, these tasks can keep you engaged and ensure you're well-prepared for the busy season ahead.
Connect with Fellow Beekeepers
Winter is an excellent time to connect with other beekeepers in your community or online. Join forums, attend virtual beekeeping events, or participate in local beekeeping clubs. Sharing experiences and learning from others can provide valuable insights and foster a sense of community among bee enthusiasts.
While winter may slow down the buzzing activity of your bees, it doesn't mean you have to be idle as a beekeeper. Embrace the opportunities that the colder months offer to enhance your knowledge, care for your bees, and prepare for the upcoming season. By staying proactive and engaged, you'll find that beekeeping is a year-round adventure filled with learning and excitement.