Bee Talks Recap | June 2026
Updated: Aug 26
In this episode of Bee Talks, we focus on managing colonies during swarm season and making practical decisions as hives continue to grow. We discuss what happens inside a colony before and after a swarm, including the role of drones, managing the remaining hive, and evaluating queen cells. We also talk about feeding strategies, when it makes sense to stop feeding, and simple ways newer beekeepers can rebalance colony strength. The conversation covers moving hives, testing and treating for varroa, and whether keeping a bottom board insert in place all year long affects temperature regulation for hives located in our area.
In this episode:
00:00:00 - Intro & Bloom Calendar
00:12:19 - Do swarms typically leave drones behind in the host colony?
00:13:51 - How are the layen swarm boxes doing at the bee yard right now?
00:15:28 - How can I know if my hives are diseased / should I consider re-queening if my queen cells appear small or capped?
00:23:27 - When should I stop feeding my bees? Is the better option to feed too long or to stop too early?
00:30:15 - How can I rebalance my hives as a new beekeeper?
00:35:07 - How do I manage the host hive after a swarm?
00:36:53 - How do I move a hive to another area?
00:42:35 - Should I test before treating for varroa?
00:51:03 - Should I keep my bottom board in at all times for inspection purposes, or will this negatively affect thermodynamics?
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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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