Here’s the main advantages of using nematodes over chemical controls for SMALL HIVE BEETLE Using nematodes like Steinernema carpocapsae to control small hive beetle (SHB) populations offers several clear advantages over chemical controls: In summary Nematodes provide a highly effective, safe, and sustainable alternative to chemical pesticides for SHB control—protecting pollinators, hive products, and the […]
Rearing your own queen bees empowers selective breeding for desirable traits—such as honey production, disease resistance, gentleness, and overwintering survival—while ensuring a reliable supply of high-quality queens for your apiary. 1. Why Rear Your Own Queens? Rearing your own queens allows beekeepers to: 2. Biology of Queen Development All female larvae start identically; the caste
Beekeeping is moderately labor intensive, but the commitment varies greatly depending on the number of hives, your management style, the season, and your level of experience. Estimated Time Commitment for Hobbyist Beekeepers Spring requires the most attention (weekly inspections, swarm prevention), while fall and winter need far less—sometimes only monthly or bi-monthly checks[4][5][6]. Scaling Up
Small Hive Beetle – By James D. Ellis – This image is Image Number 5025046 at Invasive.org, a source for images of invasive and exotic species operated by The Bugwood Network at the University of Georgia and the USDA APHIS Plant Protection and Quarantine program., CC BY 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=8187533 Learn ways to manage the Small
The most effective habitat restoration methods for supporting multiple pollinator threats at once involve creating high-diversity native plantings with overlapping bloom times, establishing structural and spatial diversity, and using adaptive site management techniques. These approaches simultaneously address habitat loss, nutrition, climate resilience, disease, pesticide exposure, and fragmentation.[1][2] Key methods include: In Summary By combining these
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There are over 200,000 species of wild pollinators worldwide, encompassing not only bees but also bats, birds, butterflies, moths, flies, beetles, wasps, and even some small mammals[1][2]. Among these, bees are the most significant group: Other groups of wild pollinators Other diverse groups of wild pollinators play important roles in different habitats and crops, including
Supporting solitary bees is essential for healthy pollination and biodiversity. Unlike social bees, solitary bees nest alone and need specific habitats that you can easily provide in your garden. Ground-Nesting Solitary Bees Cavity-Nesting Solitary Bees Natural Materials Extra Tips By providing undisturbed ground, natural plant stems, and simple bee hotels—and minimizing disturbance and chemicals—you’ll make
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Planting native species is one of the most effective ways to support bee populations in your region. Here’s a list of top-performing native plants—selected based on university extension recommendations, ecological studies, and Pacific Northwest plant guides—to maximize bee visitation and biodiversity in gardens across Washington, Oregon, and nearby states: Top Native Plants for Bees Tips
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Photo by Ralphs Fotos via Pixabay Creating a bee-friendly garden is one of the most impactful ways homeowners can support local bee populations and promote healthy ecosystems. Bees are crucial pollinators for flowers, vegetables, and fruit trees, so your efforts help far beyond your own backyard. Key Practices for a Bee-Friendly Garden Simple Steps to
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The most effective hive management techniques to prevent swarming focus on reducing congestion, maintaining optimal hive conditions, and manipulating colony structure and queen dynamics. Based on the latest best practices: Summary Table: Swarm Prevention Tactics Technique How It Works Key Benefit Add extra space Add boxes/supers Reduces congestion Brood nest manipulation Alternate/separate brood and empty
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