seasonal · beginner
Winter Preparation
What to do in fall so your bees survive January.
Late-summer and fall winter preparation
Start in August; don't wait until October to protect winter bees. Here's what matters:
- Check for Varroa in August and treat if needed, based on mite counts and local thresholds. Follow the treatment label and recheck counts to protect winter bees.
- Adequate stores: at least about 40–50 lb of honey in Tennessee and the Southeast; about 75–95 lb in the far North. Needs vary with local climate and colony size; confirm your target with local Extension guidance.
- Reduced entrance + mouse guard before the first hard frost.
- Wind block if your apiary is exposed.
- Insulate the top to absorb condensation — wet bees die faster than cold bees.
That's the whole list. Don't overthink it.
Sources
- UT Extension: Beekeeping in Tennessee (PB1745): Tennessee stores minimum of 40–50 lb and August Varroa checks/treatment if needed.
- UF/IFAS: Overwintering Honey Bee Colonies in Northern Climates: about 90 lb of honey reserves in the North, supporting the approximate northern planning range above (not a Tennessee recommendation).