The discussion will begin with a quick review of the physiology of a winter hive, and the bees’ strategies for collecting and storing honey. Then we’ll dive right in with a look at:
- Wraps, from Bee-Cozies to tar-paper to straw bales and more. Then we’ll look at;
- Insulating above the colony, starting with quilt boxes, rigid insulation, shims, spacers and more. The workshop will also touch on;
- Feeding sugar, fondant, and pollen patties in late winter/early spring.
We will then watch a quick demo for how to build and position a quilt box. Quilt boxes are becoming a popular and relatively simple way to keep heat from escaping from the top of the hive while also allowing moisture-rich inside air to wick out.
The Zoom presentation will last 40 minutes, but the workshop will continue at Agricultural Hall. Materials and tools for assembling quilt boxes will be available for sale, as will tar-paper used for wrapping . To save a little money, bring an empty medium super and a piece of fabric larger than the box itself.
Again, the video and discussion portion of this workshop is free to BABA members, and $5 for non-members. The in-person quilt box assembly workshop immediately following the Zoom presentation (~11:15) is $10 per person. All needed materials & supplies will be available for sale.
To register, please email president@bostonbeekeepers.org