Bees must be moved to higher ground prior to hurricanes or tropical storms. And hurricane season can pose a great threat to colonies. Warmer temperatures also mean that the bees use more resources because they do not enter a dormancy period during the fall and winter. Florida must also be alert to the presence of Africanised honey bees, which were originally bred in Brazil but escaped in 1957 and eventually found their way to the U.S. However, the warm, humid climate can be problematic in that it provides a favourable environment for varroa mites and pests such as hive beetles. The fact that Florida is close to the Atlantic Ocean is also an advantage because the ocean can moderate temperature extremes. The sun also shines for a greater length of time during the winter compared to more temperate states. Known for many distinct traits, Velly Carpenter Bees (Xylocopa sonorina) are common in California. From May through October the weather can go from hot to cool, which can affect the growth of plants and disrupt the bees’ foraging schedules.īeekeeping is at an advantage in Florida because abundant sunshine means longer days and more time for foraging. Spring is also the time to cheque for signs that the colony might be preparing to swarm, and beekeepers can make a split to prevent that from happening.īecause the climate in Florida is mild compared to states to the north, the honey bees are able to fly and reproduce during all months of the year. Because Florida bees are often rented to help with almond pollination in California, it’s important to make sure that the bees are ready to produce as early as February. If the bees are in a region where the flowers bloom late, the bees may need to be fed a sugar solution and a pollen supplement. If she’s not laying eggs, she may need to be replaced. In early spring, colonies should be inspected for signs of disease and pests, and to cheque on the queen’s activity. Although the timing of management practises may change according to region, there are general tasks typically required during the early, middle, and late parts of the year.Īt the start of the year, it may be necessary to feed bees if food stores are not adequate. Florida’s climate and bloom timing differ greatly within the various geographical areas of the state, and honey production occurs only during a few months of the year.
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