96 THE BEE-KEEPERS' REVIEW 



Those colonies that are short of stores must be fed, while others 

 will be found to have more than will be consumed ; so it is best at 

 this time to equalize the stores of the entire yard — that is, take 

 combs or frames of honey from those that are over-supplied and 

 give to the ones short. Usually this will be sufficient; however, 

 some seasons it will be found necessary to feed nearly or all of the 

 colonies, in which case we consider the best way to feed outside of 

 the hives — say one-eighth of a mile from the yard. 



Use granulated cane sugar, one part to four parts of water; 

 feed in shallow pans, using sticks. Put cork tips or excelsior in 

 the syrup to prevent the bees from drowning. This also acts as a 

 stimulative feed, inducing brood rearing, thus building up the colony. 

 In fact we use a stimulative feed at this season however strong the 

 colony in stores and bees. It is also well to feed some wheat shorts, 

 flour, corn meal or cotton seed meal, especially if poHen was short 

 the fall before. 



The last half to quarter of month will find wild flowers in bloom, 

 also orchards of peach and some varieties of plum trees. 



MARCH— New England and Eastern United States. 



By Burton N. Gates. 



Assistant Professor of Bcc-Kccping, MassacJuisclts ^-Igriciilfiiral College, 



Amherst, Mass. 



^March is perhaps the most critical month in the year for the 

 bee-keeper. If his colonies have wintered, they may die yet. Future 

 success depends on adequate manipulation. This year with the ser- 

 iously mild weather, particular attention must be paid to stores. 



With the beginning of brood rearing, the summer season com- 

 mences. The colony increases its consumption of stores. Pollen is 

 necessary. A lack of honey may mean a serious setback to the col- 

 ony or even its death. Feed to stimulate. 



If you think of increasing your aj^iary, make your plans now. 

 If 3'ou would change the site of your yard, spring is the admirable 

 season. 



Be cautious not to spread brood too early. Unless you are sure 

 there is no disease in your yard, it will not pay to transfer combs 

 promiscuousl}^ Many have been the catastrophies in J\Iay and June 

 from this manipulation. 



Remember one secret of honey getting, as well as protection 

 from diseases, is the maintaining of prolific, large colonies. Begin 

 now. 



Look for your queens; if any are lost supply new ones or unite 

 colonies, with discretion. 



