Connecting with beekeepers across the state a common theme is heard. Mild to warm weather in January & February, followed by frigid temperatures in the first week of March caused hive to brood up during the warm weather only to be set back during the cold snap. In the area where my apiaries are located there were four nights of 20 degree temperatures and it was 22 degrees on March 4th.
Continued cool weather and rain has hindered the nectar flow leading many medium to large scale beekeepers to supplement with sugar syrup feeding.
Cool weather in the almond regions of California has delayed the return of bees to Texas that are on pollination contracts there.
Reports are coming in that drone brood and emerged drones sightings are late.
East and North East Texas large-scale operations are reporting above average winter losses due to the heavy October rains.
These factors are leading to a late bee production season in many parts of the state and may affect nucleus hive deliveries by some bee producers.
There are exceptions along the southeast, coastal areas of Texas and the Rio Grand Valley which seem to be fairing well.
Though the season is late and brood up in certain regions is late, the National Weather Service is giving reason to be hopeful for a good nectar flow. Though too much rain can be just as bad as a drought, the National Weather Service is predicting above average rains for south, south central, northeast and east Texas with a slight chance of above average rains for north & north central Texas through June.
The National Weather Service’s 3 month outlook map through June is found at:
https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/predictions/long_range/seasonal.php?lead=1
Fortunately, because of the the warming nights combined with intermittent rains over the past 10 days, have put the hives back on the brood up track.
May your hives be heavy and your honey sweet!!
Bruce Bonnett