This is the best time of year to make sure your hive boxes (lid and bottom board) are in their best condition for winter. Patching up old paint work or retouching-up oiled boxes is best done now, before winter weather hits. Also check for loose screws. Making sure your hive is aligned correctly (e.g., Langstroth hives should be tilted 5 degrees forward) and close off top ventilation.

This is also the critical time to prepare your bees for winter, i.e., the next month will be the last time you can safely do a brood check. Hives need to be protected from the damp and cold of winter, so make sure they are raised off the ground and there is good waterproofing between the base board and the lower support structure.

How much honey will your bees need for winter? Langstroth hives need 2 ideal boxes full of honey, a Warre hive requires 1 box of honey and Layens/Lazutin hive needs 1 full frame of honey. It is also important to ensure your bottom boxes are packed with honey on the sides.

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