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Showing posts with the label Pollen patties

The Ultimate Guide to Pollen Patties: How, When, and Why to Supplement Your Bees

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Hello, beekeeping friends! Winter has settled in, and it’s time to ensure our bees not only survive but thrive through the colder months. In regions like ours, where mild days can alternate with freezing nights, proper hive nutrition is critical. With spring just a few months away, now is the perfect time to set your colonies up for success. This guide covers everything you need to know about pollen supplementation, from traditional methods like patties and dry pollen to cutting-edge strategies like probiotics and eco-friendly alternatives. Plus, we’ll explore the risks of overfeeding, beginner-friendly tips, and the importance of timing for colony health. Why Supplement Bees with Pollen? 🌸 Pollen is essential for honeybee health, providing the proteins and nutrients bees need to rear brood, maintain energy, and build fat stores. Sometimes, nature falls short, and that’s where supplementation comes in. Key reasons to supplement: Winter Survival: Bees rely on fat stores to stay healt...

Winterizing Your Beehives in Northeast Oklahoma: A Comprehensive Guide to Protecting Your Colonies 🐝❄️

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Winter is approaching, and for beekeepers in Northeast Oklahoma , preparation is key to ensuring your colonies survive and thrive through the colder months. With the unique climate of our region, including mild winters punctuated by sudden cold snaps, it’s essential to implement hive management practices that address these challenges. Whether you’re an experienced beekeeper or just starting, this guide offers practical, regionally specific tips to help your bees navigate winter successfully. Why Winterization Matters Preparing your hives for winter isn’t just about survival—it’s about setting your colonies up for success in spring. Proper winterization addresses the following: Varroa Mite Control : Ensuring a healthy bee population free from parasitic stress. Food Stores and Emergency Feeding : Avoiding starvation during periods of inactivity. Moisture Management : Preventing deadly condensation inside the hive. Wind Protection : Shielding hives from cold north winds that can chill bee...