May To-Do’s:

May showers bring May flowers, and the bees should be taking full advantage. Now that we’ve finally received some rain, keep an eye on the Tulip Poplar and Blackberry blooms. Make sure you have plenty of frames and boxes to account for the influx of nectar. Also, purchase and prepare all necessary extraction and honey equipment such as bottles, lids, and strainers. 

Continue to monitor for pests and diseases but limit inspections to allow for unobstructed honey collection and preparation. Swarming will still occur, though it may become less common as the major honey flow takes precedent. While the temperatures continue to rise make sure colonies have ready access to water if a close by source is not available. Now is also time to consider planting annuals for future nectar and pollen sources.