Join us for an exciting episode of Hive Vibes in July for Southern Maine & New Hampshire, where we take a deep dive into the essential beekeeping practices for July. This episode is packed with expert tips on seasonal hive care, effective swarm management, and strategies to keep your colonies thriving during the peak summer months. From monitoring honey production to preventing swarms and ensuring your bees stay healthy in the warm weather, we’ve got you covered with practical advice tailored to the unique climate of the region. Whether you’re a seasoned beekeeper or just starting out, tune in to learn how to make the most of your hives this July!

In this episode of The New England Buzz on Beekeeping, we take a deep dive into the complex world of amitraz, a widely used miticide in commercial beekeeping, with insights from Randy Oliver’s in-depth analysis on ScientificBeekeeping.com.

We explore its history, application methods like Apivar strips, and its effectiveness against varroa mites. The discussion uncovers potential risks, including sublethal effects on bees, increased Nosema susceptibility, and possible synergism with pesticides like neonicotinoids.

Are concerns about Amitraz’s role in Colony Collapse Disorder and queen supersedure justified, or are they overstated?

Join us as we weigh the evidence, discuss responsible beekeeping practices, and highlight the need for further research into Amitraz’s impact on hive health.

In this episode of The New England Buzz on Beekeeping, we dive into the essential practice of monitoring varroa mite infestations in honeybee colonies using the sugar roll method. Perfect for beginner beekeepers or seasoned apiarists looking for humane pest management techniques, we break down the step-by-step process of conducting a sugar roll. Learn why pure confectioners’ sugar (no additives!) is key, how to safely collect approximately 300 bees from the brood nest, and the best techniques for shaking those mites loose without harming your bees. We’ll also explore why the sugar roll is a gentler alternative to the alcohol wash, ensuring your colony stays strong while you keep mite levels in check. Tune in for practical tips, equipment recommendations, and expert insights to help you protect your hives from the threat of varroa mites. Whether you’re aiming for a 2-3% mite threshold or just want to understand your bees better, this episode is packed with sweet advice to keep your apiary thriving!