Dear Members,

March often sees the weather warming up and we eagerly anticipate taking a quick look inside the hive to see how the bees are doing, but…don’t do so until the weather is above 15 deg C.

Sometimes this is referred to as T-shirt weather but at that temperature, I still have my cardigan on and the bees can easily become chilled. Also, remember that it takes the bees about 48 hours to get the hive back to the 35deg C temperature that is needed around the brood to keep it alive and strong, so think about why you are opening the hive before doing so, and make it short if you need to look inside.

We didn’t have the strong winds and storms that sometimes occur in February, so be prepared for the possibility that these may come our way in March and make sure you have your rooves tied down or put a brick on top to prevent, particularly peaked rooves, from blowing off.

Although the snowdrops, crocuses and hellebores provided early pollen and March will bring more pollen from hazel, pussy willow and dandelions, there is not yet a large supply of nectar until the top fruit blossom is out in force, so do keep an eye on your bees food supplies and you can either continue with fondant or start to feed strong syrup ( 1:1 sugar:water ratio) but remember once you start feeding syrup continue until there is plenty of nectar available, and…be aware that your bees will build up quickly and you will need to look out for swarm preparations early.

Talking of swarming do come to hear Jane Medwell’s talk on swarming at our March meeting as she is an excellent speaker and will have useful information to impart.

Those who came to the AGM will be aware that we did secure a nomination for next year’s chair of Rugby Beekeeping Association, Cathy Moore has kindly stepped up to shadow Andy Dixon as his ‘Chair Elect’ this year. Arising from the discussion at the end of the AGM a small group of us are also hoping to do some Queen Rearing at the Branch Apiary and if we are successful be able to share some good quality queens with branch members, and hopefully improve our local stock. While AGMs are not the most exciting events, supporting the Association in achieving its aims is important. Andy gave us an entertaining and informative talk to round it off about his other pet passion, Bullmastiffs.

A happy band of beekeepers came to help clean equipment for the Branch Apiary in February and this was much appreciated. The weather was kind and we were able to chat about bees and other things while scraping and flaming away. Thanks to all who participated.

Regards, and stay safe and well. Margaret Holdsworth