2 Kepobt of Mabtland Agriculttjbai, Societt 



havior and the fundamentals of colony manipulations and apiary man- 

 agement. With this need in mind, more time was allotted to this part of 

 the yearly program than to the other phases of the work. Beekeepers in 

 all parts of the State, many of whom are just learning of the existence 

 of a State worker in apiculture, indicated an increased desire for instruc- 

 tion. They want this instruction in the bee yard where i)ersonal instruction 

 can be given, where they can ask questions and can be actually shown how 

 things should be done. The extension worker has expressed the belief in 

 previous annual reports that there is no adequate substitute for this 

 method of teaching bee culture and that whatever else is done can be only 

 of an auxiliary nature. 



General Work in the Amabt 



In working with the beekeeper in the apiary, it was the policy not only 

 (o help him with the things for which he requested help, but to outline 

 a yearly plan of colony manipulation and apiary management. It is be- 

 lieved that the most valuable instruction and information given to the 

 beekeepers was dispensed in this way. First the apiary site is discussed 

 and recommendations made for altering it if advisable. Then the yearly 

 cycle of work is discussed, starting with the preparation of bees for winter, 

 continuing with spring management, swarm prevention, control practices, 

 methods of supering, removal of the honey crop. This brings to mind many 

 questions which the beekeeper often would not have remembered to ask 

 at the time. Next, the problem of equipment is gone over thoroughly and 

 recommendations made. The preparation of honey for the market is dis- 

 cussed and recommendations regarding pack and suggestions as to outlets 

 are made. Grading, according to the U. S. Standards and Grades for 

 honey, is always urged. Finally all beekeepers are urged to use the cost 

 account sheets prepared by the extension worker. Great difficulty has 

 been experienced in getting the beekeepers to use these record sheets or 

 even record sheets of their own devising. A few men are using them and 

 it is hoped that each year the number can be increased. 



Hequeening 



One of the greatest specific needs of Maryland beekeeping at the present 

 time is better stock. A large majority of the colonies in the State need 

 requeening with new queens of good blood. There can be no question but 

 that a general requeening in the State would greatly increase the State 

 average of colony honey production, cut down winter losses and bolster up 

 the whole tone of Maryland beekeeping. At every opportunity, in the 

 apiary, at beekeepers meetings, and through letters and publications, this 

 thought was stressed, as it is felt that this is a fundamental need of prime 

 importance. 



It had been the plan of the extension worker to actually do as much of 



