Bee breeding technology and management

Bees , these hardworking insects, are not only pollinators in nature, but are also closely related to human life because of their products. From honey and royal jelly to bee venom, from crop pollination to industrial raw materials, the contribution of bees is everywhere. Let’s learn about bee breeding techniques and management.

1. Management during the breeding period

Spring is the golden period for bee reproduction. Management requires precise control of the temperature in the center of the hive at 33 to 35 degrees Celsius to promote reproduction. At the same time, ensure that the bees have sufficient pollen and nectar sources, and open the beehives moderately to facilitate ventilation and promote metabolism. Pay attention to the potential harm of early spring cold waves to bees, take insulation measures, and reduce the size of the hive to concentrate the bee colony when necessary.

2. Management of honey flow period

During the peak period when bees are collecting nectar, arrange nectar sources in advance to encourage the bees to actively make honey. Solve the problem of bees leaving the nest and ensure they can collect smoothly. Protect the beehive from direct sunlight to avoid damage to the bee colony.

3. Management during the wintering period

Bees are prone to honey shortage in winter and need to replenish food in time. Warm the stored honey combs indoors and place them in the beehive. If a bee is found to be suspended, it should be quickly moved to a warm environment and sprayed with warm honey at around 25 degrees Celsius to effectively revive it. The distance between beehives should also be adjusted in winter to facilitate heat preservation.

4. Specific requirements for feeding bees

When it is detected that the bee colony is insufficient in sugar, add syrup in time, with a ratio of 2:1 sugar water, and cool it after melting for feeding. When there is insufficient pollen, mix the pollen with red bean syrup and feed it to the fish in the ratio of pollen: red bean syrup = 1:0.8.

5. Tips for beekeeping for beginners

Fully understand the living habits of bees, such as the nature of swarming, to improve the success rate of breeding. Choose Italian bees or Chinese bees according to the local environment. Chinese bees are highly adaptable and suitable for beginners. Consider the bees' collection distance, environmental quietness, and temperature and humidity requirements, and prevent predators. Wild bees can be purchased or captured, but the latter is more risky for novices.

6. How to feed water to bees

The use of feeders is suitable for areas with inconvenient water sources. It reduces water pressure and requires regular water changes. Establishing water holes is suitable for dry areas to provide a long-term water source and requires regular filling or water changes. The use of ditches is suitable for places close to rivers . Digging ditches slows down the flow of water and provides water collection points. When using the traditional method of utensils, the water needs to be changed every day to ensure the water quality.

The above is an introduction to bee breeding techniques and management key points. Do not try bee breeding rashly, but should first understand the growth habits of bees and learn breeding techniques.