Inspect today if you can — the weather turns partially unfavorable tomorrow.

Current Blooms & Nectar Flows

• Eastern redbud trees and fruit blossoms (apples, pears, cherries) are peaking, driving a moderate nectar flow that supports rapid colony buildup; this flow should persist through mid-May.
• Dandelions, early clovers, and wildflowers like columbine provide weak supplementary nectar and pollen sources into late spring.
• Upcoming in the next 1–2 weeks: Black locust blooms begin late April for a strong flow into May, followed by tulip poplar's major nectar surge in early May.

7-Day Weather Outlook

Mild temperatures in the upper 60s to mid-70s dominate early week with mostly clear to overcast skies, offering good windows for inspections and foraging, but rising winds and precipitation chances mid-week through the weekend will restrict hive access and bee activity. Today starts cool in the morning, clearing to a favorable afternoon for management tasks. Tomorrow provides a usable window after morning clouds, but showers and gusts intensify Thursday, escalating to likely thunderstorms and heavy rain Friday-Sunday, prioritizing hive protection over openings.

Actionable Advice

• Inspect hives this afternoon during the optimal window, checking brood patterns and swarm cells while the moderate nectar flow builds colony strength.
• With tomorrow's limited afternoon availability, prioritize any splits or mite treatments today.
• Secure hive lids and add entrance reducers ahead of gusty winds and impending rains later in the week.

Bottom Line

Inspect today if you can — the weather turns partially unfavorable tomorrow.