Horticulture & Specialty Crops
Hive Inspection Checklist
Use this checklist during hive inspections. Beekeepers confirm colony health, queen signs, space, stores, and pests so problems are handled early. Print a copy for each season and keep the filled pages with your farm records.
ChecklistHorticulture & Specialty CropsFree PDF
What is on this checklist
- Wear protective gear and use smoke
- Check for a laying queen or eggs
- Look at brood pattern and health
- Check honey and pollen stores
- Look for signs of disease
- Check for pests such as mites
- Confirm enough room for growth
- Close the hive and record notes
How to use this checklist
Use one sheet per unit, pen or field. Date it, sign it, and file the finished copy so you can look back at what was found and fixed.
Where to check the details
This sheet is a general template, so confirm specifics with your own manuals, labels and local rules. For current official guidance, start with eXtension and USDA APHIS.
For more in this area, see the row crop calendar. Between chores, farm.FM has farm humor, including Never Tell An Outlaw Not to Sing about Jesus, and farming farm stories.