Episode 175 – Winter Hive Survival: Science, Insulation, and the Condensing Hive 🧊🐝

In this episode I talk with Minnesota beekeeper Peg DeSanto about one of the biggest challenges in beekeeping, getting colonies through winter. Peg explains how she became determined to stop winter losses and what she learned about insulation, moisture control, and the science behind the condensing hive approach.

What’s Inside This Episode:

• Why 50 to 60 percent winter losses are not inevitable
• How moisture and cold both threaten hive survival
• What R values actually mean for top and side insulation
• How bees manage condensation and why wet bees die fast
• What condensing hive design solves and how to build one
• Real data from researchers like Tom Seeley and Etienne Tardif
• How proper insulation reduces honey use and stress

Why Listen to This Episode?

You will learn how modern data and natural behavior work together to redefine overwintering success, with practical steps any beekeeper can apply before the cold sets in.

More Info:

🌐 https://beekeepingfornewbees.com

🔗 https://bestbeekeepinggear.com

📺 https://youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees

💬 https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ

☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbees

🫶 https://thehealinghiveproject.org

About the Podcast:

Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 1.5 % podcast with over 600,000 downloads, helping new and experienced beekeepers grow stronger colonies and make smarter decisions through every season. Listen weekly for practical guidance, swarm stories, and honest takes on what works and what does not in real-world beekeeping.

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