Beekeeping Tips for January
by Todd Balsiger
Based on what I learned at the Fall Conference, beekeeping
is not going to get easier in 2008, and our hive management
practices may need to change to address new concerns. There are
two main concerns: a more virulent form of Nosema which is
active all year (N. ceranae – discussed in the last issue of
The Bee Line), and the loss of synthetic miticides to control
varroa (old news?). Time will tell how these issues will play
out. Maybe Nosema ceranae will not be as virulent as some are
suggesting – stayed tuned. In regards to synthetics not being
effective (fluvalinate and coumaphous in particular), we now
have alternatives – many of which are natural chemicals –
like formic acid. For your overall stragedgy in 2008, I would
suggest you consider the following points:
- Breed or purchase mite–fighting bees (the most
important thing we can do according to Randy Oliver)
- Adopt integrated pest management practices
- Use natural chemicals for varroa control, and synthetics
as a last stop
- Provide nutritional feeding (especially if stressed by
commercial pollination)
Okay, now the tips for January…
- In general disturb your bees as little as possible.
- If you are concerned about starvation, lift the back of the
hive to assess its weight. Provide emergency feed to
featherweight colonies.
- Brood rearing and metabolism increase at this time of year
which adds to hive moisture, so make sure lids are water tight,
that hives are tilted so water drains away, and that there is
sufficient ventilation.
- Make periodic checks of your apiary, especially after a
wind storm to make sure nothing is amiss.
- Prepare for next month's tasks – in the past we have always
recommended treating for foulbrood and varroa mites in
February. I know some begin these treatments at the end of
January if weather allows.
- For the non procrastinators, this is a good time to
assemble hive components while there is not much else to do.
- If you have don't it already, order your queens and
packages now.
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