Final Preparations for winter in your apiary

Claire Waring's step by step guide to keeping your bees safe in the cold weather

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Previously, we have talked about getting ready for winter. There are a few other things that we need to do to help our bees come through and be raring to go next year.

The first is to make sure that your hives are weathertight. Are the roofs sound or could they let in the rain? Damp hives really do not do your bees any favours. You should have made sure all the other gaps were filled up when you made the hives bee-tight during feeding. Actually, you need to make sure this is the case at all times but it is especially important when wasps and other bees are out looking for easy pickings.

KEEP YOUR ROOFS ON!

If your roofs are shallow, you need to take measures to ensure they do not blow off in high winds. Either strap the whole hive together or put a heavy weight on the roof (or both!). Deep roofs are less likely to blow off but you might want to take precautions anyway. If your apiary is windy, think about improving the shelter from hedges or fences.

MAKE SURE HIVE STANDS STAY UPRIGHT

Make sure the stand is sound and capable of supporting the weight of the hive. Check the condition of wooden stands as they can deteriorate when kept outside in all weathers. Metal stands may rust but, assuming the metalwork is substantial, it will be a long time before they collapse. Treating stands with an appropriate preservation agent or paint will extend their useful life. Stands should lift the hive at least 230 mm (9 inches) off the ground to give space for air to circulate.