Beekeeper's Monthly Guide for the Year

Can you get honey from a first year hive?

The 2025 Beekeeper's Calendar is here! A brand-new year—don’t forget to take good care of your little bees! 🐝✨

January
In the cold winter months, make sure your bees have enough food stored to survive. Check the hive occasionally without opening it too much to prevent chilling the bees. Look for signs of moisture or mold inside the hive and clean if necessary. Protect your hive from harsh winds and predators.

February
As winter continues, ensure your bees still have enough food, especially if their activity level increases on warmer days. You can add sugar cakes or fondant if needed. Avoid unnecessary inspections unless the weather warms up significantly.

March
Spring is on the horizon! Start checking your hive for signs of life and activity. Inspect the brood pattern when it's warm enough to open the hive. Prepare for the active season by ensuring the hive is in good condition and stocked with enough resources.

April
Spring is here, and your bees will become more active. Inspect your hive regularly to check the queen’s health and the growth of the colony. Add space as needed to prevent overcrowding. Watch for early signs of swarming and ensure the bees have access to flowering plants nearby.

May
This is a busy month for both you and your bees! Swarming becomes more likely as the colony grows rapidly, so monitor closely and take steps to prevent it. Add supers for honey storage if the hive is thriving. Keep an eye out for pests and diseases.

June
As the nectar flow peaks, your bees will be working hard to produce honey. Inspect your hive for pests like varroa mites and ensure there’s plenty of space for honey storage. Maintain proper ventilation in the hive as temperatures rise.

July
Summer is in full swing. Check the hive weekly to monitor its health and ensure the bees have enough space and food. If there’s a nectar dearth in your area, consider supplementing with sugar syrup. Keep the hive clean and free from pests.

August
It’s time to harvest honey! Extract the surplus honey carefully, leaving enough for the bees to maintain their strength. Check the hive’s overall health and begin preparations for the upcoming cooler months.

September
Focus on winter preparations. Ensure your bees have enough stored honey to last through the winter. Reduce the hive’s entrance to keep out predators and protect against cold drafts. Treat for varroa mites if necessary.

October
Winter is coming! Finalize your hive’s winter setup. Ensure it’s properly insulated and protected from harsh winds and rain. Clean the hive thoroughly and ensure all components are in good condition.

November
Reduce hive inspections to avoid disturbing the colony. Check for signs of predators and make sure the hive remains dry and secure. Monitor food stores and add extra if necessary.

December
Let your bees rest. Avoid opening the hive unless absolutely necessary. Monitor for moisture buildup and ensure your hive is weatherproof. Keep an eye out for activity during warmer winter days, as this could signal a need for more food.

🐝✨Special Note

Each month brings unique challenges for beekeepers. Regular monitoring, timely interventions, and a strong understanding of your bees’ needs will help ensure a healthy, thriving colony throughout the year.