Welcome back, beekeepers and environmental enthusiasts! Dive into the autumn and early winter tasks in my world of beekeeping on Richardson’s Rubicon this episode. As your host, John Richardson, my current location in chilly Scotland might not align perfectly with your calendar, but our experiences certainly resonate.

Now, here we are approaching the end of the year, with late August and early September already behind us. At this time, we should have already ensured that our bees had ample stores, by feeding them sugar syrup, a task that leaves the hive brimming, attracting the curiosity of even the most novice keeper. Another cardinal task we must remember is treating the bees for varroa mite, potentially a threat everywhere.

One major subject we delve into is winter bees and how they differ physiologically from spring and summer bees. These bees, blessed with a life span of approximately four to five months, play a vital role in the hive’s survival. They are designed to produce royal jelly that is imperative for the nutrition of the soon-to-arrive spring and summer bees, a process that’s magnificent in its own right. Unfortunately, these winter bees face a significant threat from the varroa mite, subsequently leading to the loss of an entire hive in many cases.

To fortify the bees during this critical phase, the episode offers practical advice on feeding bees a fondant, such as Hive Alive, an excellent source of nutrition complete with disease-preventing thymol. The podcast moves on to detailed guidance on securing hives using ratchet straps, checking stands for stability, and maintaining intrahive temperature. Tips to ensure the hive’s entrance is unblocked become of the utmost importance at this time of the year when the morgue of expired summer bees piles up.

In the vein of preventive care, we consider the appropriate time to treat against Varroa mite again in December. The weapon of choice? Oxalic acid sublimation – a chemical method effective in eliminating around 96% of the phoretic mites. Though this method requires caution and proper protective gear, the benefits significantly outweigh the risk.

The episode wraps up with a reminder that from January onward, we return to the seemingly unending task of checking bee stores and weathering the winter months, patiently waiting for the return of spring and the chance to assess the health of our hives. Remember, each season brings its challenges and victories. In beekeeping and in life, survival often hinges upon the careful preparations made long before adversity strikes.

Tune in to Richardson’s Rubicon’s podcast for more on beekeeping in Pick Your Passion, where we share our passions and learn together one episode at a time.

Here’s where to get a Gas Vap: https://www.bridge-cottage.com/gas-vap

Hive Alive fondant: Thornes (other stockists available)