Essential August Beekeeping Tasks: Preparing Your Hives for Late Summer

August is a crucial month for beekeepers, especially those new to the craft. As the peak of summer passes, preparing your hives for the approaching fall is essential. This period can be one of both bounty and challenge as you manage honey production and begin preparations for the cooler months ahead. Here are key tasks and considerations for managing your bee hives in August:

1. Monitor and Harvest Honey

August is typically the time to harvest honey, but timing can vary based on your local climate and the condition of your hives. Check your supers; if the frames are 80-90% capped, it’s time to harvest. If your bees are not capping their honey stores, check the moisture content of the honey if it is between 15% and 18% you can still harvest. Be sure to leave enough honey for the bees — they need substantial stores to get through the winter.

2. Treat for Varroa Mites

Varroa mite populations peak during late summer. It’s crucial to check your hives for mites and treat them if necessary. Managing mites now can prevent severe infestations that weaken bees during the winter. Use an integrated pest management approach and choose treatments that are effective yet safe for the bees, considering any honey that may still be harvested.

3. Provide Adequate Ventilation

Heat can still be intense in August, and proper ventilation is essential to prevent overheating and moisture buildup in the hive. Ensure that your hives have enough space for air circulation and consider adding ventilation screens or propping up the outer cover slightly during extreme heat.

4. Prepare for Winter

Begin to assess your hives’ strength and start planning for winter. Strong, well-populated hives have the best chance of surviving the cold months. Consider combining weaker colonies with stronger ones to increase their chances of survival.

5. Check Food Stores

While August may still offer plenty of foraging opportunities, it's crucial to ensure that your bees have enough food stores as they head into fall. Check the frames in the brood chamber; if stores are low, you may need to feed your bees sugar syrup to help them build up their reserves.

6. Inspect Hive Health

Continue regular inspections to check for signs of diseases or other stress factors. Look for healthy brood patterns, signs of queen presence, and any abnormalities like mold or foul odors, which can indicate disease or pests.

7. Document Your Observations

Keeping a beekeeping journal is incredibly valuable. Record the health of the hive, yield of honey, issues encountered, and any treatments applied. This information will be instrumental for planning future activities and understanding the health trends of your colonies.

August is a month of preparation and transition for beekeepers. By staying diligent and proactive, you can help ensure that your bees remain healthy and productive as they head into the more challenging seasons. Remember, each hive is unique, so adjust these tips based on your specific conditions and bee behavior. Happy beekeeping from all of us at Waterford Bee Company!