Got my bees yesterday. Two five-frame nucs. Beek said there was a good flow on and I probably didn't need to worry about feeding them.
Weather forecast is calling for scattered t-storms the next 4 days. Should I feed internally so they have something to eat in case the rain keeps them down?
Thanks.
QuoteShould I feed internally so they have something to eat in case the rain keeps them down?
I would. Anytime I have a new colony drawing out foundation I like to keep feed available. But I'm also well north of you, with a much shorter season, so I want to do everything I can so that a new colony is ready for winter.
I always feed so they get a good start. Since I'm not looking for honey the first year I let them use it all for construction and storage. If they are getting strong I stop, especially if a flow is started (still learning how to read that), or if they ignore the syrup I remove it and stop feeding. If I have pollen I give then some of that for brood. If no pollen then protein substitute powder. They'll ignore the fake (protein) stuff when they start getting enough of the real thing.