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Informed Discussion of Beekeeping Issues and Bee Biology

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Informed Discussion of Beekeeping Issues and Bee Biology <[log in to unmask]>
Date:
Wed, 9 Aug 2000 13:11:54 +0200
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During the 1999 pollination season (August 1999
through November 1999), conditions of extended
blossoming were experienced on plums, pears and
apples. This was caused (it is believed) by an
excessively long and dry Autumn (Fall).

The extended flowering period necessitated keeping
bees in orchards for up to 30 days. Logistically
this caused conflicts, as colonies are often
rented out for more than one sequential crop. Bees
could not/would not be freed by fruit producers.

The situation has resulted in embarrassment to
advisors, who, in the past, were able to predict a
flowering period of 7 days to (max.) 21 days.

The Western Cape Bee Industry Association's
Pollination Forum is currently gathering
information whereby advice is sought regarding the
establishment of a "pollination window" clause
within their draft pollination agreement. Advice
from horticulturists and growers is also solicited
regarding the validity of the assumption that: (a)
plums should have set a crop or start becoming
unattractive to bees within 14 days
(b) Pears (delivered in two sets) within 2 x 7
days (c) Apples  within 14 days (c) over and above
the three directives, all bees should/should be
removed by full bloom date plus two days.

Climatic conditions this year mirror those of the
previous season. Conditions of extended blossom
are again predicted. Your experience would be
appreciated.

Robert Post
South Africa

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