Two Growing Colonies

Getting the bees settled was exciting in itself. However, little did I know how much there was to witness and learn throughout the first spring and summer. From spring to summer, beehives experience significant growth and activity. As temperatures rise, the bee population inside the hive expands rapidly. The queen bee lays thousands of eggs each day, while worker bees tirelessly attend to her needs.

During summer, beehives become thriving hubs of activity. Worker bees venture further in search of nectar and pollen, converting their harvest into honey, the colony's primary food source. As the population grows, bees construct new honeycomb and expand living spaces to accommodate the increasing numbers. The initial 10,000 bees from a new package are now dwarfed by colony sizes above 50,000!

Throughout summer, beehives reach their peak strength, with bees managing temperature and ventilation to create an optimal environment for the queen and her brood. This includes bearding on the “front porch” if needed to bring the inner hive temperature down. Additionally, they play a vital role in pollinating nearby plants, contributing to the reproduction of various plant species. For beekeepers, closely monitoring hive progress during this time is essential to maintain the hive's health and ensure a bountiful harvest of honey. The spring-to-summer journey showcases the efficiency and wonders of honeybee society in nature.