As the seasons change and the working cycle transfers from the apiaries to the orchards, the weather and daylight all changing the cadence of the working day. Orchard days starts earlier than bee work (Bees don’t like early mornings) and the misty vistas across the valley are such a welcome sight. The dew hanging on the apples, leaves and webs sparkling in that autumnal morning light. What a belter the Harvest and Hunters moons were! So bright and so lucky to have crisp clear skies to appreciate them under.
Queen wasps and bumble bees are in flight searching out their winter quarters for a safe hibernation. Our own bees are still out of kilter only now starting to commit to winterisation with the longest feeding window ever. As predicted in my last missive there were indeed supersedure cells in hives (see pics) sadly most of these hives will perish over winter having set little time aside to prepare. Although this sounds a bit glum it is best to have genetics that will prepare for winter and need less human intervention.
Queen Supersedure Cell
We have Christmas shows coming up in November and we’re busy getting stock ready for these and our lovely retailers. You can visit our new Christmas page here.
Pressing is just starting in the cider shed , the smell of apples lingers wonderfully in the cold morning air and the noise of milling and pressing fills the yard.
Chimera Apples
- Seasons Change - 30th October 2024
- August – The Bee Season Draws to a Close. - 18th September 2024
- Best Laid Plans – May & June - 30th July 2024