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As the Midwest welcomes the cooler days of September and the lush landscapes of Wisconsin begin to transform into a tapestry of autumn colors, it’s a critical time for new beekeepers to focus on their hives' health and prepare for the coming winter months. Here’s a guide to help you navigate these pivotal weeks, ensuring your colonies are robust and ready for the colder weather ahead.
1. Finalize Honey Harvesting
In the Midwest, September is typically the tail end of the honey harvesting season. If you haven't already harvested, it’s time to wrap up to allow your bees to focus on preparing for winter. Remember, it's crucial to leave enough honey in the hive to sustain your bees when forage becomes scarce. A good rule of thumb, especially in colder regions like Wisconsin, is to leave at least 60-80 pounds of honey in the hive.
2. Check and Treat for Varroa Mites
Varroa mites are one of the biggest threats to honey bees during the winter. Conduct a thorough check for these pests as cooler weather can exacerbate their impact on a weakened colony. If mite levels are high, consider treating your hives with an appropriate miticide. Options like Apivar or oxalic acid treatments can be effective, but make sure to follow guidelines carefully to avoid harming your bees.
3. Begin Winter Preparations
September is the ideal time to start winterizing your hives:
Insulate the Hive: Ensure your hives are well-insulated against the cold. This can involve wrapping the hive in insulation wrap, especially in northern states like Wisconsin, where temperatures can drop significantly.
Reduce Hive Entrances: This helps prevent drafts and keeps out pests.
Check the Hive's Weight: Lift your hive from the back to gauge if it feels heavy, indicating sufficient stores of honey and pollen.
Will You Feed: Are you considering sugar fondant feed or sugar cakes? Supplementing your bees resources can help keep them going through the early months of winter. We recommend using pollen patties in the late winter to help give the bees a boost going into the spring. We always have one of those 50 plus degree days in February that you can sneak into a hive to drop a patty or some extra sugar.
4. Provide Windbreaks
If your hives are exposed to prevailing winds, set up windbreaks to protect them. This can be anything from a constructed barrier to naturally using the landscape, such as positioning hives near a hedgerow or wall.
5. SEED FALL AND SPRING Forage
Think about the future! If possible, stop at your local nursery and look for seeds and new plants like late-blooming plants that can provide a last-minute food source for your bees. In the Midwest, species like goldenrod and aster can provide vital nectar and pollen as other sources diminish in the fall. Make a plan for spring forage. Consider using cover crops like clover to give your bees a spring time bump
6. Regular Monitoring
Even as the active season winds down, continue to inspect your hives regularly for signs of disease or distress. Keep an eye on food levels, the presence of the queen, and overall bee activity.
7. Stay Educated
Attend local beekeeping meetings or workshops. Many beekeeping associations in the Midwest offer seasonal tips and tricks that can be invaluable, especially in states with harsh winters like Wisconsin.
By following these essential tips, you can ensure your bee colonies are well-prepared for the winter months. September is a month of transition and preparation; taking the right steps now can make all the difference in the survival and health of your hives come spring. Remember, every hive is different, so keep notes on what works and what doesn’t, and adjust your strategy accordingly. Happy beekeeping!
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