In December, the beekeeper’s main task is to ensure that there is enough food in the hive for the bees to survive the winter. The beekeeper must therefore keep an eye on the weight of each individual colony. This month, we look at the connection between propolis and wax production. We also talk about global honey production and the traceability of its origin.
In November, the beekeeper’s main objective is to ensure the survival of the colonies during the winter. He must ensure that the hives are well protected from cold, humidity and predators, while avoiding unnecessary disturbance.
September usually marks the end of the season and the start of honey bottling. However, 2025 continues to be affected by the aftermath of last year, with production still severely impacted by the climate and pests.
August is one of the strongest months for beekeeping. After a very difficult year in 2024, marked by a sharp drop in honey production, we’re hoping that the bees will have bounced back sufficiently this season!
July is generally a quieter time for beekeepers, with the exception of professionals on transhumance who alternate for example between harvesting lime trees or brambles.
May is a crucial time for beekeepers. After the rape flowers have bloomed, it’s time to start extracting the honey. The nectar harvested during this period is at its peak, but beware: if the beekeeper waits too long, the honey starts to crystallise in the cells, making extraction increasingly complex. Good hive management is therefore essential to ensure an optimum harvest.
In April, the weather gets milder and the rapeseed fields blossom. Experienced beekeepers start to prepare for swarming and install the supers. It has been claimed that rapeseed could be the cause of swarm fever.
In March, temperatures stabilize in the south of France. Professional beekeepers are already stimulating their colonies to start rearing quickly, whereas in recreational beekeeping, hives won’t be opened until after the end of the month, or as soon as temperatures stabilize above 14°C.
As temperatures rise in February, bee activity picks up again. Depending on the region, spring is beginning to take hold. However, it is important to remain vigilant in the face of possible frosts, which could affect the most fragile colonies.
A new year for beekeeping! On behalf of the entire API from SÜDZUCKER team, we wish you success, a dash of new things, may joy brighten your days and may your bees be watered with nectar… And especially after a very complicated year! Many of you have been following us (thank you for that!) and we’ll be continuing to support you for the fifth year already!
