Monday 23 April 2018

Newsletter April 2018

Dear Beekeeper

Our speaker last month from Bees Abroad, Stuart Andrews, was delighted with your generosity after his interesting talk on beekeeping in Uganda and the charity's work to support this.


In the apiary:
At last you should have opened up your hives & discovered what has gone on.
I am aware of several who have had a nasty surprise, discovering that their colony which appeared to be fine in February/March has dwindled & died. Please let me know if you will be looking for bees/swarms this spring – we may be able to help. A couple of members have rejoined the swarm collecting list.

Oil seed rape flowers are almost out, later than usual, I hope you were able to follow Pam Hunter’s advice to build the colonies up before the rape becomes available.
Only one of my now 5 colonies listened to me…….

Old, dirty or damaged frames should be moved to the back of the colonies to be replaced, 3 a season is a minimum. If they contain brood, move just a step backwards, never split the brood nest.
Remember that bees need ample space to store & process nectar, it takes up less room once it becomes honey, legally below 20% water content.


Kent Bee Health Day:
Well done to all who signed up for the Bee Health Day at East Malling on Saturday April 28th.
The places are now sold out.
This popular and useful event has meant we are moving our April apiary meeting to
SUNDAY April 29th at the usual time of 2:30 pm at Eythorne. More below.

Wednesday evenings at Eythorne apiary:

Dick & Peter were very glad of the help given last month to remount the hives on more solid bases & in better positions. Many thanks to the hard working team!
Now the weather is better, they will be starting the Wednesday sessions at Eythorne at 6:30 pm, for beginners & experienced helpers to provide hands-on experience in a small group.

There are always tasks to do & you will be welcome.
Check Dick’s blog at
https://eythornebees.wordpress.com
Hope the link gets you there!


This month’s meeting: 

SUNDAY 29th April at our Eythorne Apiary, at Eythorne Court, Shepherdswell Road, Eythorne CT14 4AD 2:30 p.m.
It is along Shepherdswell Road, near Eythorne as you head towards Shepherdswell, on the left, near a black wooden building. We park in the next field. If you are a new member or visitor, please make yourself known, we get busy!

Mary will work with beginners, & other pairs will demonstrate at the club’s hives, the hives will be assessed as to their quality & temperament by criteria which Dick will be explaining. The progress of colonies can be compared with your own. Bring clean suits, wellies & rubber gloves. We have suits to borrow for beginners & observers.

Return your Library books & choose another!
Tea [£1] and raffle as usual. Bring your own mugs!!!!

I hope you will be able to come along.

Best wishes.
Maggie.