11/14/2025
As autumn fades and cold winds settle in, the Plymouth Place bees have been busy making final preparations for winter. Their summertime population of nearly 80,000 has naturally declined to a cozier winter crew—just enough to cluster tightly and keep warm.
We removed the upper honey super, leaving them with two brood boxes packed with about 60 pounds of honey to sustain them through the cold months. The thick comb itself acts as insulation, and the bees’ teamwork provides the rest. Last month, we even witnessed the annual “eviction” of the drones—nature’s practical way of conserving resources.
To support their efforts, we added a generous portion of Pro Bee Winter Mix for extra nutrition and installed a mouse guard to keep their snug home secure. With full stores and a strong colony, they’re well prepared to ride out another Illinois winter.
Special thanks to Lori Stralow Harris of Salt Creek Butterfly Farm and Apiaries for keeping our bees healthy and strong.
