Swarming is a natural part of honey bee biology—but that doesn’t mean it has to happen in your apiary. In this episode, we break down the triggers that lead to swarms and the proactive steps you can take to reduce the risk. From adding supers to splitting strong colonies, we’ll cover what works, what’s optional, and what to avoid.

What’s Inside This Episode:

• Why bees swarm (and why it’s not personal)

• How swarming impacts honey production and colony survival

• Signs your colony is preparing to swarm

• Practical prevention strategies: supering, splitting, and managing brood space

• Why queen cells aren’t always bad—and how to handle them

• Common myths about reversing boxes and gadget-based “fixes”

Why Listen to This Episode?

Whether you're in your first year or your fifth, understanding how to prevent swarms will make your colonies more productive and less chaotic. This episode gives you the tools to keep your bees at home—and your season on track.

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About the Podcast:

Beekeeping For Newbees is your go-to podcast for practical advice, real-world insights, and the tools you need to succeed as a beekeeper. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your skills, we’re here to help every step of the way.

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