A great quick video (7 minutes) to get you introduced and warmed up for March 18…If you haven’t registered yet, you still have time… But do it soon, as seating is limited!

Mother Nature is fickle. Some years she rouses the earth’s Spring song early, others she lingers in slumber awhile. What will 2017 bring?

In years past, I had been half-heartedly keeping track of some signs as I noticed them, and last year I was purposely more vigilant because I wanted to know better in order to prepare the hives for “full swing” when the time was right. It seems that while the OBX qualifies as “eastern NC” on official charts I have seen giving bloom timelines, we still differ and are slightly off from other locations, even from the mainland which is only a few miles over water.

I am posting this in hopes that you might also find it helpful in determining when to ready for the Spring and Fall nectar flows, and when to possibly expect times of dearth. It is in no way inclusive of all pollen & nectar plants, (includes some that are not bee-beneficial) and does include things I just wanted to be aware of (Gosh Darn Yellow Flies!!). This year I also intend to make note of not only when plants begin to bloom but also when they are finished, so as to have a full picture of the number of days the bees can harvest. If you happen to have any records of your own from years past, please feel free to share and I will add them to the chart!

Denise Deacon, 252.722.3118

The Beaufort County Beekeepers Assoc. is offering beginner beekeeping classes soon in Washington, NC… If you plan to attend and want to carpool, please let the group know!