Caroline M. McDonald’s presentation emphasises that choosing the correct location and setup for an apiary is crucial for both the health of the bees and the efficiency of beekeeping practices. She highlights that an ideal site should be sheltered and oriented toward the south or southeast to take advantage of early morning sun while avoiding frost pockets, flood-prone areas, and obstructions like trees or electric poles. A nearby water source, secure access for the beekeeper, and clear flight paths free from human and animal interference are also essential for maintaining a productive apiary.
In terms of setup, the presenter underscores the importance of thoughtful hive arrangement. Hives should be placed on stands at a comfortable height to reduce physical strain, and the layout should avoid straight lines—especially aligned with prevailing winds—to prevent drifting, which can spread diseases and disrupt colony balance. This careful planning in both location and design not only promotes bee health but also enhances the overall management and productivity of the apiary.
Below is a polished, month-by-month guide outlining key beekeeping tasks:
March
• Heft the hive to check its weight and stores
• Feed the bees if necessary
April
• Conduct routine inspections
• Record hive observations and complete Hooper’s Questions (REDDS)
• Late in the month, check for queen cells and signs of swarming; install bait boxes as needed
May
• Continue with regular hive checks and update hive notes
• If a new queen is present, mark her
• Monitor for queen cells
• Add supers when the colony requires more space
June
• Be aware of the June drop in forage
• Check that the bees have sufficient stores
• Add supers as needed to accommodate growth
July
• Perform routine inspections
• Add supers as necessary to ensure adequate space
August
• Harvest honey
September
• Remove supers and prepare the hive for winter
• Treat for Varroa mites
October
• Continue Varroa treatments
• Verify that there is sufficient space (or create space for winter feeding, such as with Ivy Honey)
November, December, January
• Occasionally heft the hives
• Clean and store beekeeping equipment properly
• Trickle with Oxalic acid for ongoing Varroa management
This schedule provides a clear roadmap for maintaining a healthy apiary throughout the year.
The “Hive Inspection Notes 2025-1.docx” file is a template designed for recording and tracking the condition of individual beehives. It includes sections for:
• Hive Identification: Fields for hive number and queen status
• Inspection Details: Date of visit, observations about eggs, brood, and available room
• Colony Health: Columns to note the number of frames of bees, brood pattern, and any signs of disease
• Behavior and Management: Areas for recording docility, the presence of a super, and additional notes or comments
• Action Items: Sections to document observations, actions taken, and further needs
This format helps beekeepers systematically monitor hive performance and make informed management decisions throughout the season.
