June is a pivotal month in the beekeeping calendar, marked by high activity within the hive as colonies reach their peak. Understanding this mid-year dynamic is essential for both seasoned and beginner beekeepers.
Bee Colony Dynamics in June
Peak Colony Activity
Up until June 21st, the queen bee’s egg-laying is at its highest due to the abundance of pollen and nectar. This period sees the hive bustling with growth. However, post-summer, as these resources dwindle, there’s a noticeable drop in egg-laying. By July 14th, the emergence of new bees surpasses the number of eggs laid, signaling a shift in the hive’s growth dynamics.
Wax Production
Mid-June is also significant for wax production. Wax moths, which are actually young bees around 12 days old, are responsible for building comb. This wax production lasts less than a week and occurs when there are enough young bees and a steady flow of nectar and pollen.
June Tasks for Beginner Beekeepers
Handling Your First Swarm
For beginners, June often marks the exciting moment of managing their first swarm. If it’s a year-old swarm, patience is necessary as it may not be ready for immediate hive placement. The primary focus should be on colony expansion and frame management.
Frame Construction
Take advantage of the waxmakers’ peak activity to construct new frames. This is also a good time to replace old or overly blackened frames and to build up a stock for future use.
Monitoring Brood and Health
Regularly check the brood for abundance and health. If you notice any signs of disease, such as varroa mites, or a reduction in brood, consider feeding to stimulate the queen’s egg-laying, especially if dealing with a newly recovered swarm.
Maintaining and Monitoring Hive Stores
The bees at the beginning of June are generally born from eggs laid in April. To ensure robust colonies by late summer, it’s key to monitor and manage the hive’s food stores carefully. A shortage during this period can adversely affect the hive’s ability to overwinter successfully.
Relocation in June
Many beekeepers engage in migratory beekeeping during June, relocating hives to areas abundant with seasonal blooms like clover, black locust, or wildflowers. This practice enhances honey production by providing bees access to rich nectar sources. To optimize honey collection, it’s recommended to move colonies when about 20 percent of these flowers have begun to open. This ensures that bees are quickly attracted to the new floral sources, allowing them to start foraging immediately and efficiently.
Conclusion
June is a month full of activity and requires diligent management to make the most of your beekeeping efforts. By understanding the natural rhythms of your hive and adjusting your management practices accordingly, you can help ensure a productive season. Remember, while there are guidelines to follow, beekeeping also demands a personalized approach through careful observation and adaptation to local conditions and environmental factors.
By embracing these practices, beekeepers can enjoy a rewarding season and look forward to a successful harvest.