We’ve hit that part of the year where your bees — and your beekeeping suit — start to steam.
It’s officially boil-the-beekeeper season in Central Texas, and the heat can cause stress for your colonies just as much as it does for you. As nectar flow slows and temps climb, here’s how to help your bees stay balanced:
1. Give ‘Em Space
Strong colonies need room to expand and move nectar. Super up before they get too crowded and cranky.
2. Add Water
Bees need water to cool the hive. Birdbaths with pebbles, shallow trays with floats, even a slow-dripping hose can do the trick.
3. Improve Ventilation
Use screened bottoms, ventilation rims, or simply prop the lid up a bit to help hot air escape.
4. Provide Shade (When You Can)
Some dappled shade in the afternoon can go a long way. Just don’t move hives drastically — they’ll get lost.
5. Watch for Heat Stress Signs
Bearding, reduced foraging, cranky temperaments, and melted comb are all red flags.
Your bees are tough, but a little summer prep can make the difference between thriving and just surviving.
Join us this Saturday at the shop — we’ll dig into all things summer beekeeping and answer whatever questions are boiling up in your brain.