Bee Talks Recap | July 2026
- Connecticut Beekeepers Association
- Jul 15
- 2 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
In this episode of Bee Talks, we address practical questions that many beekeepers encounter as their colonies reach peak summer populations. We will discuss various topics, including when to replace older nuc frames, how oxalic acid treatments fit into hive inspections and honey harvesting, and the importance of monitoring for varroa mites, even when they are not visible. Additionally, we will cover feeding during nectar dearths, knowing when to add honey supers, relocating or selling hives, managing heavy hive inspections, recognizing when robber screens are needed, and whether neighboring colonies drift between hives.
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In this episode:
00:00:00 - Intro & Bloom Calendar
00:11:55 - How and when should I swap the original frames I received with my nucs for new, deep frames?
00:15:47 - How much time should I wait after an oxalic acid treatment to inspect or harvest honey?
00:17:19 - I don’t see any mites in my hives — should I still treat for varroa? How? When?
00:19:25 - I heard there was a nectar dearth in Connecticut this June. Should I be feeding during this time?
00:25:04 - My deeps are full. When should I add a honey super?
00:30:22 - What’s the best time to move or sell hives & equipment?
00:32:05 - How can I manage an inspection if I can’t lift the weight of the box?
00:33:10 - When is the best time to relocate a hive?
00:38:55 - How do I know if my hives need robber screens?
00:41:05 - If two colonies are located next to each other, will the bees always return to the same colony?
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Have Beekeeping Questions?
Bring your questions, ideas, and observations to the next Bee Talks, held the second Thursday of each month.
Each session includes a Q&A period and a discussion on a seasonally-appropriate topic, guiding beekeepers through the year. Open to all, regardless of experience or equipment, these sessions support your practice and provide essential information for success.
Bee Talks are led by Bill Hesbach, an Eastern Apicultural Society Certified Master Beekeeper and University of Montana Master Beekeeping Program graduate. He teaches bee biology and beekeeping methods at regional events and national seminars. Bill is on the Board of Directors for the Eastern Apicultural Society and is President of the Connecticut Beekeepers Association. His articles appear in Bee Culture, Bee Craft, and The American Bee Journal.
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