When to Stop Supplementing Your Honeybee Hives in Spring

Spring is a critical time for beekeepers, especially in North Texas, where the landscape bursts into life, offering a rich source of nectar for honeybees. As a beekeeper, it's essential to know when to stop supplementing your hives to allow your bees to thrive on natural nectar sources. We cannot stress this enough, but DON’T go based off what other beekeepers are doing on social media. Every hive has its own needs and resources available! Here's a guide to help you navigate this transition:

Observe Your Bees' Behavior

Pay close attention to your bees' behavior. When they start foraging actively and returning to the hive with pollen, it's a sign that natural sources are available. Bees will typically reduce their consumption of supplemental feed when natural nectar and pollen are abundant. You may even start to notice them building comb and storing honey right above the frames or above the inner cover.

Check the Weight of the Hive

A heavy hive indicates that bees are storing nectar and converting it into honey. If the hive's weight increases significantly over a few days, it's a good sign that natural nectar flow is sufficient, and you can consider reducing or stopping supplementation.

Monitor the Weather

In North Texas, warm and sunny weather in spring encourages plant growth and nectar production. Keep an eye on the forecast, as a stretch of good weather is likely to coincide with a strong nectar flow. As opposed to rainy days that will wash out resources. (2021: DFW got hit with storm after storm, draining nectar/pollen for the bees. In turn, honey harvest was weak that year, even delayed.)

Identify Key Plants in Bloom

Several plants in North Texas are excellent nectar sources for honeybees in spring. Look out for the following:

Bluebonnets: These iconic Texas wildflowers bloom from late March to early April, providing an early source of nectar.

Indian Blanket (Firewheel): Blooming from April to June, these flowers offer a rich nectar source for bees.

Clover: Various clover species, including white and red clover, bloom in spring and are favored by bees.

Horsemint (Beebalm): Typically blooming from April to June, horsemint is a magnet for bees and other pollinators.

Texas Sage: This plant produces nectar-rich flowers throughout spring and summer.

Consult Local Beekeeping Resources

Connect with local beekeeping clubs or associations in North Texas. They can provide valuable insights into the timing of nectar flow in your area and advise on when to stop supplementing your hives.

Conclusion

Knowing when to stop supplementing your honeybee hives in spring is crucial for their health and productivity. By observing your bees, monitoring the weather, and keeping an eye on key flowering plants, you can make informed decisions that align with the natural rhythms of your local ecosystem. Embracing the natural nectar flow allows your bees to thrive and helps ensure a successful beekeeping season!