Pollen is the colony's protein source and the direct limit on brood rearing. It is discussed less than the honey flow but matters more for colony development.

Why it is critical

Without pollen no brood can be reared. Even with honey in the hive, the queen reduces laying when pollen runs out and colony growth stops.

This is the commonest hidden limit in spring: the beekeeper sees honey and cannot understand why the colony is not growing.

The importance of variety

The amino acid composition of pollen varies with plant species. Pollen from a single source gives an incomplete protein package.

A colony receiving varied pollen is more resilient: immunity works better and winter bees live longer.

Recognising the flow

• Watching the entrance: The number of bees arriving with loads on their legs is a direct indicator
• Colour: The colour of the loads shows which plants are working. A range of colours means a range of sources
• The pollen band in the comb: The width of the ring around the brood shows the state of the store

Early spring

This is the year's most critical pollen period. The colony's protein requirement is at its highest as brood rearing begins, and forage is still limited.

Early-flowering trees and shrubs are decisive here. Where they are absent, colony build-up is delayed.

Late summer

The second critical period. Winter bees are reared then and the development of their fat body depends on pollen.

A shortage of pollen in late summer means weak winter bees. Late-flowering sources are valuable for that reason.

What to do in a shortage

• Give pollen or a substitute. Natural pollen is best; substitutes offer an approximation
• Apply it inside the hive, as a patty
• Do not feed it when forage is available; it is unnecessary

The balance with pollen production

Running a pollen trap cuts the colony's protein intake. If the brood area begins to shrink, the trap must be closed.

Pollen is not taken from weak colonies, newly made splits or colonies being requeened.