Month by month

Beekeeping in February

When you do open up in February, you are looking for pollen going in on mild days — a sign the queen is laying.

Can I inspect my bees in February?

No, not yet. The colony is starting to raise brood and needs every bit of warmth. Heft, watch the entrance for pollen, and wait for March.

Jobs for February

• Still closed. Heft every week or two; fondant if light. Stores run out fastest now.
• On a mild afternoon watch the entrance: pollen coming in means brood.
• Varroa drop board in for a week to see where you stand.
• Make up spare brood boxes and frames for swarm control. Plan your bait hive.