Month by month

Beekeeping in December

When you do open up in December, you are looking for nothing inside — this is the month for oxalic acid, not inspections.

Can I inspect my bees in December?

No. December is for oxalic acid on a cold, broodless day, not inspections. Heft, and keep the entrance clear.

Jobs for December

• Oxalic acid (trickle or vapour) on a cold day when the colony is broodless, usually three weeks into a cold spell.
• Heft. A colony that was heavy in October can still be light by now.
• Keep entrances clear of dead bees after cold snaps. Do not block them: condensation kills more bees than cold.
• Order kit in the sales. Make up frames by the fire.