MARCH.
At the commencement of this month, clear the snow away from the front of the hives; raise the hives up on blocks at the corners, remove the bottom board under the brood section, and brush out all accumulations, which might invite the bee moth to deposit her eggs, if suffered to remain through the summer. This accomplished, set the hive back in its place. The first day that the bees fly, set out the meal as heretofore directed. Commence to feed liquid food as early as the bees will take it. Feed regularly every day, or every other day, at evening. When you commence to feed, remove the packing from the cap, and also take off the ventilator. The space over the comb frames not covered with the feeder, cover with a small honey board. Let the packing remain at the sides until you have put on the side boxes, or until some time in May, as it keeps the brood chamber warm, which is essential in forwarding breeding. Open a small portion of the upper entrance (about one-third) and keep the passage open at the bottom, the same as during the winter.