NOTES FOR BEEKEEPERS

Taranaki Daily News, 15 September 1934, Page 24 (Supplement)

NOTES FOR BEEKEEPERS

THE APPROACH OF SPRING YOUNG BEES WILL SOON BE HERE. (By D. S. Robinson). In the warmer districts there should be noticed a little activity at the hives, as there will be a small amount of nectar available to be gathered from the wattles, tree lucerne and other early flowering trees and shrubs. If one watches carefully, as the warmer weather approaches, bees may be observed returning to the hives with little balls of coloured pollen attached to their hind legs; this indicates that spring is approaching, and the work of caring for the young bees will soon be here. Unless it is absolutely necessary do not disturb the hives by opening them, as the winds are usually keen in the earlier part of the season and it is an easy thing to chill any brood that may appear in the combs.

Providing the bees were left with plenty of stores when closed down for the winter it is unnecessary to touch them, but as a safeguard give the back of the hives a lift to test the weight. If at all light they should be fed with sugar syrup made in the proportion of one part of sugar to two parts of water. To facilitate melting the sugar, make the water hot, pour it on the sugar and stir well. Feeding should be done at sundown and the syrup should be fed while still warm to avoid chilling the interior of the hive. Care should be exercised to avoid. spilling any syrup about the apiary and the entrances of all hives fed should be closed to the smallest aperture to prevent robbing. , Keep all long grass, weeds, etc., away from around the hives, so that they can have plenty of air, as dampness in the hive is not conducive to good beekeeping and attracts slugs, woodlice and other insects. Push on with, the making up of appliances likely to be needed for the coming season. This Month’s Recipes. Honey and baked apples: Try apples cooked this way. Cut out the cores of the apples and fill the cavity with honey, to which can be added a pinch of cinnamon or one or two cloves. Cook in usual way. Honey and cinnamon toast: Spread honey on lightly buttered toast, sprinkle with cinnamon, cut in fingers and serve warm.

Honey and hot milk: This makes a splendid drink, is refreshing and invigorating. Taken by a tired person it soon restores lost energy.