PUB President Bill Catherall started things off reminding those not on the Swarm List to register as this is the month for swarms. If you haven’t registered jump on over to the Bee Allies site and take advantage of swarm reports, mentoring opportunities, and available apiary spaces.
Glen Andresen shared his monthly Pollen & Nectar report. In addition to his advice on using mouse guards with your hives, Glen took us through annuals, perennials, shrubs, vines and flowering trees that are contributing to this year’s record honey flow. For a more detailed report check out bridgetownbees.com for Glen’s monthly “What’s in bloom” report. And please email Glen with any photos and/or suggestions of other good honey bee plants.
Our featured speaker was Professor Dewey Caron, who explored best practices when caring for your hives during the month of May. To view the complete presentation go here. He also gave us a presentation on swarm control offering up many different solutions you can try out depending on your goals and how much work you want to put into it.
Swarm season is underway and it’s not too late to get in on the action! If you need bait hives there are still a few available for purchase for $30 ($25 for 2 or more) so email Lauren Smith to order yours today.
We’re just 6 weeks from Tour De Hives 2016 which is the weekend of June 25-26! This is our yearly fundraiser and PUB’s best opportunity to introduce Portlanders to the art and science of beekeeping. Tickets now on sale here so please spread the word to all your friends.