NORTHWEST INDIANA BEEKEEPERS ASSOC.
QUEENRIGHT
May 2025 – Editor, Janice Wrona
Spring is finally in full bloom! May marks one of the busiest months of the beekeeping year
Colonies are no doubt growing rapidly, nectar is flowing and swarming season is in full swing. Actions taken this month will shape the strength of your bees through the summer and fall. Now is the time to keep inspections consistent and thorough. Every seven to ten days is a good goal. Look carefully for a healthy queen, a strong brood pattern and signs of overcrowding or swarm preparation. It’s vital to ensure your queen as plenty of room to lay. If brood nests are too congested, she’ll start thinking of finding a new home. Look for queen cells, especially along the bottoms of frames and act quickly if you see them. Add space by installing additional supers. Making a split is often the best strategy! Supplemental feeding is unnecessary now that full bloom is here, BUT keep a water supply available for your busy foragers. May is a good time to replace 2-3 frames per brood box with fresh foundation or clean drawn comb. Rotating out old, dark comb helps reduce disease pressure and supports healthier brood. If you notice a spotty brood pattern, signs of a failing queen or aggressive behavior when inspecting, you may want to consider requeening. Mark your calendars with the following upcoming events: Thursday, June 5th is the date for our next meeting. We’ll be at the Moose Lodge in Hobart at 6:00 p.m. On Saturday July 12th, Ken Theis, Natalie White and family have agreed to host our annual picnic once again! If you haven’t attended a picnic in the past, I strongly urge you to attend. The host’s home provides a beautiful, relaxing atmosphere for beekeeping fellowship! Their home is located at 670 Baum Bridge Rd., in Kouts IN. Food will be provided, bring a chair and join the fun at 1:00 p.m.
New Beekeeper Tip of the Month: When keeping your bees hydrated, make sure you don’t forget to hydrate yourself!!! Heat Stroke is a serious concern for beekeepers!!!!
See you June 5th in Hobart!!!!