Spring Frost Warning

[Tom K-B]

We installed two packages on April 2nd (12 days ago). Had frames with drawn comb left from a lost colony last year, so each new colony had four frames of drawn comb and four frames of foundation. We've been feeding both with top feeders. Checked on them two days ago. Both colonies are drawing out the foundation steadily. There were lots of eggs and larva in both hives. In one hive there was even some capped brood. They are storing pollen and syrup or nectar. We have a lot of early blooming here in Middle Tennessee. So, basically we have two young colonies off to a good start.

Here's my question: The weather forecast for the next two days is calling for the temp to drop tomorrow with a high in the upper 40's and then down to around 30*F tomorrow night. Is there anything we need to do to help the bees through that drop below freezing?

[Vance G]

Make sure you have the entrance reduced to about two bees wide and that the hive has no large cracks or gaping brood chilling holes in the bottom for the bees to have to suffer thru. 

[GSF]

Yeah Tom, I posted before I noticed your thread. Montgomery is supposed to have temps around 32 to 34 degrees and we are usually 2 to 4 degrees cooler than them. I hate it, that may do in the privet hedge flow - that hasn't started.

[splitrock]

After a tough winter, we are down to 15 degrees this morning. the bees had been building up real nice, and now I am back to concerned.

[buzzbee]

Short cold spells are okay as long as they have feed to hold them over til flying weather.

[BeeMaster2]

Tom,
My biggest concern would bee if the hives are closed up as previously stated, would be real high amounts of condensation from all of that feeding and fresh nectar. You might prop up the back of the hives ta little so that the water runs to the front of the hive instead of dripping on the center of the hive.
Jim

[sterling]

They will be fine. We always get little winters here in the Nashville area in April and even May. if they don't last but a couple days the bees can handle em.

[Tom K-B]

Thanks all!!!

[Tom K-B]

I'm relieved! Temps are back up in the mid 50's and the girls are flying all ov er the place once again!  :-D

[Bush_84]

We are supposed to get 6-12 inches.  Our ground is white again.  :(