“Dandelions” by Annie Watson, Thistle Hill Studio

In May the dandelions bloom, providing nectar and pollen to the growing numbers of bees in strong colonies. The bees are out in numbers on the warm days, gathering food for their growing families.

Dandelions are amazing plants with many medicinal properties. Their masses of blooms all over New England fields and lawns help to feed our bees. Thankfully, the homeowners’ practice of trying to eradicate dandelions from their lawns is on the wane. These hardy plants, though not native to North America — having been brought here by European settlers — are full of vitamins, health-promoting compounds  and antioxidants.  Dandelion is best known for its support of liver function. And, of course, it is a major food for honey bees at a critical time in the life cycle of the colony when it’s essential to gather the maximum amount of food.

“First pollen and nectar” by Annie Watson, Thistle Hill Studio

Spring has arrived! We are so grateful for sunshine and warmer days. April is a big month for honeybees. The newly available pollen and nectar support their building of a strong, well-populated colony that can make lots of honey to — yes — get them through the next winter.  Although April can still be cold in the north country, there are also many warm days where the bees are out searching for pollen. During April the willows and red maples bloom, giving the bees their first pollen and nectar of the season.

The fuzz on the pussy willows, the yellow of the willow trees, and the pink aura of the  maple buds are a welcome indication that the bees have food once again.

“Until the Next Bloom” by Annie Watson, Thistle Hill Studio

It was a difficult winter for the bees. At my house in the Champlain Valley, only one out of three colonies remains alive. We gave them a super of honey, and hope that they will make it through.

My beekeeper friend Bob writes: “Out of 16 colonies, 9 are still alive.  Some, like the one at Annie’s, look quite strong, but others appear that they’ll have to struggle to make the 8 weeks to dandelion season.” There are a few blooms before dandelions — the various willows being the main one — but we don’t know if that will be enough for the bees.

My brother Peter Watson, passed from this life a week ago. He, too, had been a home beekeeper at times. I remember a huge wild hive high up in the big tree outside Peter’s workshop near Rochester, New York. Peter was always in touch with nature and always kept an eye on where there were honey bees.

The bees teach us that life must continue, and those left behind must valiantly strive to keep family and hearth together until the next bloom.