How to Successfully Winter Honey Bees in Tennessee: A Guide from Ratcliff Honey Farm

Preparing honey bees for winter in Tennessee is one of the most important responsibilities for any beekeeper. While our winters may be milder than northern states, rapid temperature swings, excessive moisture, and limited natural forage can still threaten hive survival. At Ratcliff Honey Farm, we specialize in hive management, bee health, and sustainable beekeeping, and we’ve learned that proper winter preparation is the key to strong colonies in spring. This guide covers what Tennessee beekeepers need to know when wintering honey bees in our region.

Why Wintering Bees in Tennessee Is Unique

Tennessee’s climate presents a mix of challenges—cold snaps, warm spells, and high humidity. Honey bees can handle cold, but moisture and starvation are major risks. Because temperatures can rise into the 50s and 60s, bees may break cluster, burn excess energy, and consume more stored honey. That’s why winter hive management must account for fluctuating conditions.

1. Start With Strong Colonies in the Fall

Healthy bees going into winter are far more likely to survive. During fall inspections, focus on:

• A robust population of young workers

• A productive queen

• Solid brood pattern

• Adequate honey stores (at least 40–60 lbs in Middle Tennessee)

2. Ensure Proper Ventilation to Reduce Moisture

Moisture—not cold—is the biggest winter killer. Condensation can drip onto the cluster and chill bees. To prevent this:

• Add an upper entrance or notch

• Use moisture quilts or absorbent material

• Avoid sealing the hive too tightly

Good airflow helps bees regulate temperature and humidity inside the hive.

3. Monitor and Control Varroa Mites Early

Varroa mites weaken bees heading into winter by spreading viruses and shortening worker lifespan. Tennessee’s warm autumns can extend the mite season, making treatment essential.

• Conduct mite counts in late summer and fall

• Use approved treatments such as oxalic acid, thymol, or formic acid

• Re-check levels before winter

4. Feed When Necessary — Sugar Bricks, Fondant, and Pollen Patties

Even with good stores, Tennessee bees often consume more honey during warm winter days. Supplemental feeding prevents starvation during late winter and early spring.

Recommended feed options:

• Sugar bricks or fondant placed above frames

• Dry sugar for emergency feeding

• Pollen patties in February or March as brood rearing

5. Protect Hives from Wind and Pests

Cold wind can stress colonies, and pests like mice seek warmth inside hives.

Protection tips:

• Place hives in a sunny, wind-protected area

• Install entrance reducers to deter mice

• Use hive wraps only if needed—Tennessee bees generally don’t require heavy

6. Avoid Excess Insulation in Tennessee’s Climate

Many new beekeepers ask whether they should wrap their hives. In most of Tennessee, heavy insulation can trap moisture and do more harm than good. Instead, focus on:

• Dry conditions

• Adequate ventilation

• Ensuring strong populations

This approach keeps hives healthy without overheating during warm winter

7. Conduct Quick Winter Checks

When temperatures rise above 50°F, you can perform brief checks:

• Listen for activity

• Check the weight of the hive

• Replace or add sugar bricks

• Ensure entrances remain clear of debris

Avoid pulling frames or disrupting the cluster.

Preparing for a Strong Spring

Colonies that survive winter in good condition will explode with growth once Tennessee’s maples and redbuds bloom. By focusing on hive health, adequate food, and moisture control, you give your bees the best chance of thriving.

At Ratcliff Honey Farm, our mission is to support sustainable beekeeping in Middle Tennessee through hive management, bee removal services, and ongoing education for local beekeepers. If you need help preparing your hives for winter—or managing your bees year-round—we’re here to help.

Weak colonies should be combined before temperatures drop.