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February Update: Bees, the Greenhouse, and Winter Storm
In a winter update, the author discusses greenhouse preparations, bee activity, and recent storms. Bees are fed to prepare for spring, while greenhouse enhancements include grow lights and temperature monitoring systems using Home Assistant. After a damaging storm, recovery efforts included replanting and installing an exhaust fan to manage heat.
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Beekeeping Update: Progress and Challenges in 2024
The author reflects on the busy year, noting progress with beekeeping, including successful feeding and growth of colonies. They review last year’s ambitious goals, achieving new hive boxes and constructing a barn and greenhouse. Challenges with lavender and a Koi pond leak were addressed, with future improvements planned.
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And Then There Were Four…
Summary: In August, two bee colonies absconded due to small hive beetles. The Sunshine hive saw slow growth before the owner’s COVID illness. After cleanup, diatomaceous earth was spread. Another colony, Gnome Home, also fell victim. The owner tried Swiffer sheets and beneficial nematodes to control the beetles. Five million heterorhabditis indica nematodes were purchased…
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Moving the 3rd Boone County swarm to it’s new home
On 7/13/2024, at our Boone County location, we successfully transported the swarm box. Today, we prepared the apiary, handled the bees with the smoker, and transferred them to a new hive box. We encountered some challenges, including discovering the queen bee while moving the frames. The colony showed a shortage of honey, prompting future attention.
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July News and Updates
On the 4th of July, the author experienced symptoms related to Covid-19, prompting a hospital visit. They also shared experiences regarding skin cancer scares and the bees in their colonies. Additionally, they provided updates on their greenhouse, lavender bed, and soil monitoring. The author is optimistic about the progress of their projects, despite facing challenges.
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The Gnome Home bad news and good news…
On June 2nd, the second swarm from Howard County was transferred to the Gnome Home hive box. Despite initial difficulties, the colony became the strongest and aided the other colonies. Winter posed challenges, but feeding helped them survive. Unfortunately, a cold spell and small hive beetles led to their demise. After extensive cleaning and torching,…
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Lavender Bed June 2024
The lavender bed has seen significant growth since April, now reaching 60 plants. Despite some initial challenges, such as a broken soaker hose and saturated ground, most plants have survived. Additionally, buckwheat has attracted bees, and the honey is anticipated to have a rich flavor. Overall, good progress has been made.
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The Longest Week: Retrieving the 2nd Boone County swarm
In the lead-up to Memorial Day, the writer shares their busy week relocating a bee swarm, likening it to the enduring efforts of D-Day. They detail each day’s tasks, from painting the hive box to finally moving the bees to their new home. Despite the challenges, the rewarding outcome made it all worthwhile.
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Bee Swarm Trap Retrieval and Mother’s Day Festivities | Recap 5/12/2024
On Mother’s Day, we picked up a swarm trap from a friend, signaling the start of a beekeeping project. After a meal out and various errands, we returned home to relocate the bees. The process of moving them to their new hive took time but was ultimately successful, providing a satisfying end to the day.
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Double swarm Friday…
On 5/3/2024, a day planned for picking up a swarm trap in Boone County took an unexpected turn. Responding to a swarm notification in Columbia, the group successfully captured the bees. They also acquired another swarm trap later, ending the day with three colonies. The day was both eventful and successful.