Buzzing into Spring: Essential Tasks for Front Range Beekeepers in February and March

Spring is just around the corner, and that means our buzzing buddies are getting ready to come out of hibernation! But before we dive headfirst into the season of flowers and sunshine, it’s important to make sure our bee colonies are happy, healthy, and ready for the busy days ahead.

If you’re a beekeeper on the Front Range in Colorado, fear not! We’ve put together a handy-dandy list of tasks to keep you busy and your bees thriving in February and March. From hive check-ups to planning for spring expansion, we’ve got you covered. So grab your bee suit and let’s get hive-ing!

1. Winter Check-Up: Take a quick peek inside the hive on a mild day to make sure your bees are snug as a bug in a rug! Look out for any signs of trouble and ensure they have enough food to tide them over until spring.
2. Feed the Bees: If your bees are running low on honey stores, don’t leave them hangry! Provide them with some supplemental feeding to keep their energy levels up.
3. Tidy Up: Now’s the time to clear away any debris or dead bees that have accumulated around the hive entrance. Let’s keep things tidy and bee-utiful!
4. Plan for Spring: Dreaming of warmer days? Start planning for spring by ordering any new equipment or supplies you’ll need for hive expansion or maintenance.
5. Attend Beekeeping Workshops: Don’t bee shy! Attend local beekeeping workshops or join our club to learn new tips and tricks from fellow bee enthusiasts.
6. Check Equipment: Give your beekeeping equipment a once-over to make sure everything is in tip-top shape. Clean and repair any damaged or worn-out gear.
7. Monitor Varroa Mites: Keep an eye on those pesky varroa mites! Conduct mite checks and treat your hive if necessary to keep your bees healthy and thriving.
8. Spring Clean the Hive: As the days get longer and warmer, consider doing a thorough spring clean of the hive. Replace old frames, scrape away excess propolis, and give everything a good airing out.
9. Inspect for Swarming Signs: Later in March, keep an eye out for signs that your bees might be thinking about swarming. Make sure they have plenty of space and consider splitting the hive if it’s getting overcrowded.
10. Spread the Buzz: Share your love for bees with friends and family! Spread awareness about the importance of pollinators and the joys of beekeeping.

Remember, beekeeping is a labor of love, so don’t forget to take a moment to appreciate the amazing work your bees do! 🐝🌼