The Hive Almanac

Bee Health

Varroa mites, nosema, American and European foulbrood, and small hive beetle — how to monitor honestly, treat on time, and tell a sick colony from a slow one.

Bee Health

8 guides
Bee Health

Feeding Bees: Sugar Syrup, Fondant, and Pollen Patties

When and how to feed your bees with sugar syrup, fondant, and pollen patties. Ratios, timing, feeder types, and common mistakes for beginners.

July 1, 2026
Bee Health

Varroa Mites: How to Monitor and Treat Them

Learn how to monitor varroa mite levels, read the numbers, and choose the right treatment to protect your colonies through winter.

July 1, 2026
Bee Health

How to Tell If Your Hive Is Queenless

Learn the key queenless hive signs every beekeeper should know, from no eggs to laying workers, and how to fix a queenless hive before the colony collapses.

June 27, 2026
Bee Health

Wax Moths: Protecting Comb and Weak Colonies

Learn how wax moths damage hives, which colonies are most at risk, and how to protect active hives and stored comb from infestations.

June 25, 2026
Bee Health

Small Hive Beetle: Prevention and Control

Learn how to identify, prevent, and control small hive beetle before it destroys your colony. Practical traps, management tips, and what to do if your hive g...

June 20, 2026
Bee Health

Nosema in Bees: Symptoms and Management

Nosema is a gut parasite that quietly drains your colony. Learn the signs, how to confirm it, and what you can actually do about it.

June 15, 2026
Bee Health

American and European Foulbrood: Spotting and Reporting

Learn to identify American and European foulbrood by sight and smell, understand legal reporting duties, and know when to call your bee inspector.

June 11, 2026
Bee Health

How to Do a Mite Wash: Alcohol Wash and Sugar Roll

Learn to count varroa mites accurately with an alcohol wash or sugar roll. Step-by-step instructions, the math, action thresholds, and how often to test.

June 7, 2026

← All topics