Just got in from checking hives and am wondering if I did right thing. I didn't install A/C units in them soooooo (humor). There is nowhere on this property that is "Ideal", no real early sun, lots of wind most of the time. Even the opposite from where I have them is shaded since about 3pm. The hives are in the sun now. H1 which is usually bustling is not doing much H2 is as usual a little activity, H3 is normal ( as observed since installed). I have top feeder an inner cover. Temp went from 60 daytime to 80+ today. Question- do you think they can keep it cool enough? I was thinking about winter when I installed them also was trying to block some wind as well for winter.:scratch:
Thanks- just over thinking again. got the feeder on so the air might be a little slower is all. I lived in south Fl for 9 years and they have bees there, it got over 100 on a regular basis so I guess 80 isn't all that bad.
We use screened bottom boards and maybe a piece of plywood to knock out some of that afternoon sun seems to help. We have temperature and humidity problems so most of the experienced local beekeepers recommend good ventilation and a little added shade.
I just moved my hive this evening. Not a big move, but enough to get the hive behind an apple tree for afternoon shade. Before that they were in the full sun from early morning till late in the day. I have a screened bottom board, but later this summer when the temps get into the 90s and above (about a week of over 100 degrees in mid August) the shade that this apple tree will provide should help a lot.
Here's the new location and on my new "Bee Bench" I made this afternoon. Stained Redwood. Still need to finish the right side. I need a flat area to place tools, frames and other bits.
The Honeycrisp apple tree is to the left in the image and the hive is surrounded by two honeysuckle vines. As well as a GrannySmith apple tree to the right of the bee bench.
Hives with morning sun will work sooner.
Hives that have afternoon shade will have more bees chilled outside the hive on those cooler spring and fall days.
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