The job has not been easy for a number of reasons. It is our hope this will not only be useful to those interested in bee plants, but also delight the aesthetic sensibilities of those who might casually page through it. This quote is from an article in a past issue of the New Jersey Beekeepers Association News , written by Dr. Michael Burgett, Oregon State University. Anything reducing energy flow into the box is termed stress. Paradoxically, therefore, the beekeeper becomes a component of stress on a colony.
Weather is perhaps the greatest potential source of colony stress.
Inclement conditions slow down or stop altogether flow of nectar and pollen into a colony. The bees' solution is to stop brood rearing, reducing energy investment and colony growth. Good management provides food during this stress period. Water supply is critical. Nurse bees require water to produce jelly and dilute honey.