One of the many good things to come with modern information availability

is very accurate long range weather forecasting. My phone’s weather app is one of the tools I used when planning for winter hive checks. I’m able to schedule visits five to ten days in advance so I can plan and get organized.

Warmer days for a quick “pop the top” and add a bit of fondant are becoming more available. If bees are flying, I’ll go for a peek but don’t go into the supers or remove frames. For one, there is nothing I can do except feed and observe.

Warm days also help make equipment maintenance and spring prep less difficult for me.  New frames are ready, supers are cleaned and repaired, queens are ordered, training yard activities are under discussion and days are getting longer and warmer. Arctic vortex weather is just no fun for me or the bees.