I’ve been a beekeeper for an eternity, if an eternity means just over one month. It seems like every day there is something new to learn about them and about beekeeping. I love to learn.
In this month, there has been a robbing frenzy, followed by a would-be robbing frenzy. There has been an emergency hive transfer, from Warre to Langstroth. This is Minnesota, so of course there has been weather. The bees and I have compromised on where their water source would be. And by that, I mean that it’s exactly where they want it, bee-sized pool noodles and all.
There have been tiny victories. Like the beautiful, white comb that is being built nice and straight on foundationless frames. I glued paint stick halves into the upper grooves, as guides. There’s been a huge hive population boom, and the traffic in and out of the hive is mostly calm and organized.
As far as local plants, some bee favorites have already had their bloom time, and more are soon to bloom.
It’s been a blessing that seasoned beekeepers have either offered insight upon hearing that it’s my first year, or been willing to provide answers and advice when I’ve asked.
If the colony successfully gets through this year, I’ll be doing the Snoopy dance next spring. And hopefully there will be an additional hive. Mann Lake seems to be an excellent supplier of bees and equipment. Miller Manufacturing (Little Giant), too, is very responsive.
And if the bees do well this year, I will have had the opportunity to learn much more.
You are becoming quite the Bee Keeper. What you don’t know, you seek out and learn. You apply what you learn, and are the hardest worker I know. The bee’s are fortunate to have you caring for them!