Natural Beekeeping International Forum

[JRG]

Greeting all,
What a difference in weather a week makes in Minnesota. Maples and dogwood are in full bloom and the mid day temperatures are getting the bees busy. I continue to feed sugar syrup and I put in 1/2 a pollen patty in each hive when I installed them. It was still getting below freezing at night and no sign of pollen when I picked up the packages.
I have built four top bar hives using plans from Leslie Crowder, Phil Chandler U-tube and the usual suspects. I have two packages installed and two more to arrive May 2.
It is never to early to plan for winter in Minnesota. I am worried about insulating the hives and maintaining some ventilation. I have seen a hive being destroyed by moisture build up in a top bar hive that was built beautifully.
I did not drill extra holes for ventilation until I get a better understanding of what is needed. During the spring and summer I don't think it is necessary until it gets very hot.
Any suggestions from successful beekeepers in climates that can reach -30 would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Johnny

[ccarrington]

Hi Johnny,

I was just curious as to what part of Northern Minnesota you live? My grandparents used to live in what is now Voyagers National Park. I really miss visiting them up there.

[JRG]

Hi,
I live near Bemidji, North Central MN. Today the sun is shining and the snow is melting, finally.

[ccarrington]

Snow melt... that's good! Give my love to Paul and Babe, I've not seen them in a few years.

[TZBZ]

Not really close to you, but in the same state - and I haven't tried Top Bar yet, but I am interested in hearing about your experience with it. How did last year go for you? Any luck with wintering over?