USU Extension - Salt Lake County

This Verbascum bombyciferum, (a biennial) also known as Giant Silver Mullein is an eyecatcher with its yellow blooms against a white cottony background. What's blooming in your yard?

🐝 How are your honey bees doing right now?

As we move deeper into June, conditions can vary a lot from hive to hive—especially after this unpredictable spring in Utah.

Some things to watch:

Are bees actively bringing in nectar?
Is brood production steady and strong?
Are food stores increasing or staying flat?

👉 Reminder for this season:
Even though temperatures are warm, forage conditions can still be inconsistent after spring freezes and bloom loss. Some colonies may be thriving while others are still recovering.

✔ Continue checking hive strength regularly
✔ Watch for signs of imbalance (too many bees, not enough resources)
✔ Support weaker colonies if needed
✔ Continue doing regular mite inspections

Your bees will tell you a lot right now—slow down and observe closely.

This Carpet Rose, "Happy Chappy", is a smaller rose that packs a big punch. What's blooming in your yard?

🐝 I don’t know who needs to hear this, but your honey bees don’t follow the calendar—they follow the weather.

And this year in Utah has been anything but predictable.

That means:
• What worked last year may not apply this year
• Some colonies will be ahead, others behind
• Observation matters more than routine right now

Slow down, check your hives, and trust what you see.

Canning season is just around the corner. Don't forget to get you gauge tested! Salt Lake County Extension Office will be testing gauges on Wednesday from 9:30am-12:00pm starting on June 17th.

🐝🌼 Pollinators in Utah: More Than Just Honey Bees

When we talk about pollinators, honey bees often get most of the attention—but they’re just one part of a much larger and incredibly important group.

Here in Utah, we’re also home hundreds of native bee species, along with butterflies, moths, beetles, hummingbirds, and even some flies that all play a role in pollinating plants.

🌿 Why this matters:

Native bees are often more efficient pollinators of local plants
Many native species are solitary and nest in soil, stems, or small cavities
A diverse pollinator community makes ecosystems more resilient

🌸 How you can help:
• Plant a variety of flowering plants that bloom from spring through fall
• Avoid pesticides during bloom whenever possible
• Leave some bare soil or natural areas for ground-nesting bees
• Provide water sources in dry months

Even small spaces—like patios, gardens, or schoolyards—can support pollinators.

By creating habitat, you’re not just helping honey bees—you’re supporting Utah’s entire pollinator community.

I cannot think of a cheesier name than this - Love in a Mist. But luckily plants have at least 2 names for them. This Nigella damascene is absolutely breathtaking! What's Blooming in Your Yard?