May Apiary Checklist

Downoad the full pdf version here

Points to Ponder
    Swarm prevention critical
    Swarm management procedures
    Varroa checks
    Comb changing
    Comb Management
Tell-tale signs of swarm preparations

    There will almost certainly be drones present, or at least drone brood,
    The bees will build those little 'acorn-shaped' queen cups round the
    edges of the comb. All this is normal behaviour at this time of year and
    there is no need to destroy the cups. The presence of drones, however,
    can be a sign that the colony is preparing to re-queen it's self and
    produce a new colony by swarming.
Swarm Management Procedures

 Manage the impulse to swarm by keeping young queens. It is thought that a young queen
will produce larger amounts of queen substance than an older queen. Put an extra super
on when the last one is full of bees, not full of honey.

Make sure that the colony has plenty of ventilation as this ensures that the queen substance
can be distributed easily. It also helps in the evaporation of the nectar.

Check for Varroa
    The check for varroa should be standard now at every inspection

    Treat as necessary

Comb Management
 Old dark comb can be replaced by several methods
1. By gradually moving frames from the centre to outside - which is quite slow
2. Use the 'Shook Swarm' - method which is very quick
3. Do a 'Bailey Change' - which takes three to four weeks

Bailey Change - A quick guide

Shook swarm - A quick guide