Moving them in three-sided structures may be good to prevent having to move them back and forth.īees are smarter than you think they are. You don’t want to get them stuck at their original location. Before doing this, be sure to move them once foraging bees have returned for the season. If the hives are situated in a windy location, creating a makeshift wall should protect them from getting knocked over Another tip is placing heavy bricks or similar objects on top to prevent the hives from toppling. Secure the hives by tying them down with a rope or strap. Winter can be tough on the hives, and the following tips will ensure your bees are protected throughout the season: These boxes keep out moisture, which is highly important during the winter season. This placement prevents cold air from going inside the entrance and moving through the clusters.Īnother tip for Warre hives is placing an insulation box on top of the colony, a shallow box with a canvas or burlap bottom filled with dry, organic material. If you have a Warre hive, another trick is to stagger the boxes so that the combs are perpendicular between each box. Meanwhile, placing roofing tiles on top of the hive is a great way to soak up the sun and retain heat during sunny days. Too much insulation can lead to damp air, which can cause mildew and other problems within the hive.Īs you fortify your hives for the upcoming cold temperatures, leave an opening at both the top and bottom of the hive so that air can flow throughout.
#Winterizing bee hives install
You can also wrap your hives, install foam insulation boards, or place wind blocks around your apiary for extra insulation during the cold months. Whether you have a Langstroth, Warre, or top bar hive, it’s necessary to reduce hive entrances to prevent excess cold air from entering it. While they will work together to keep the entire colony warm, you can help them by insulating the hive. Winterizing Bees: Insulation and Ventilationīees need warm temperatures to move around and reach the honey within their hive.
#Winterizing bee hives how to
Keep your colonies warm and safe all season long with these tips for how to winterize hive bees. You’ve done your job to make sure your hives thrive throughout spring and summer, and now it’s time to help them survive the winter. Beekeepers must also work hard to prepare their colonies for the cold. When winter comes around, bees put a lot of effort into keeping the hive warm and ensuring everyone, especially the queen, is safe, cozy, and well fed. Though summer is the honey bee’s busiest season, they work hard all year long.
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