Workable inspection weather, but forage remains the weak point
Forecast period: 9 to 13 August 2026
For 9 to 13 August 2026, there are useful inspection opportunities in much of England and Wales, while inspection is more restricted in north-east England, Northern Ireland, and much of Scotland, mainly because showers and wind are squeezing the daytime opportunity.
Forage is the bigger concern. Wind is limiting how effectively bees can work exposed flowers across the UK. Recent dry weather is reducing nectar reward across much of the UK. Showers add another problem in north-east England, Northern Ireland, and central Scotland and the Highlands by interrupting the time bees can actually forage.
Later in the period, south-west and north-west England, and Wales are worth watching particularly closely, with forage weakening and stores pressure beginning to rise. North-east England and south-west Scotland look more encouraging, with better inspection opportunities and an improving forage picture. Inspection weather becomes less useful in north-east Scotland and the Highlands as the better conditions fall at less useful times of day.
Does dry weather reduce nectar production?
Yes. Prolonged dry weather can reduce the amount of nectar flowers produce, even while plenty of flowers remain in bloom. Bees may still be flying and visiting them, but the reward from each visit can be lower.
That is why a busy hive entrance can sometimes be misleading. When the weather has been dry, colony weight, stores and what is actually coming back into the hive can tell you more than bee traffic alone.
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The Apiary Forecast provides general beekeeping information and decision-support. Weather and local conditions can change, and podcast content is not a substitute for direct colony observation, beekeeper judgement or appropriate professional advice. © 2026 John Richardson / Cyberspace::UK. The Apiary Forecast podcast. All rights reserved.
