09/04/2026
It’s here: The Brazilian pepper tree provides South and Central Florida's final major autumn nectar flow of the year, running heavily from September through November.
Vital Fall Forage: Blooming when native or spring-flowering plants are largely inactive, the tiny white flowers offer a crucial food source after the difficult summer dearth
Colony Survival: The heavy influx of nectar and protein-rich pollen allows honey bee colonies to rapidly build weight, store surplus honey, and raise healthy brood to survive the winter months
Beekeeper Production: In coastal and southern counties like Lee, Charlotte, and Sarasota, strong weather cooperation during the pepper bloom results in full honey supers and heavy, productive hives just before the year ends
Ecological Paradox: While certified by UF/IFAS Extension as one of Florida's most aggressive invasive weeds, it remains an indispensable, heavy-producing asset for the commercial survival of local beekeeping operations
Happy September, beekeepers! All of us at the lab hope you and your bees enjoy your Labor Day weekend.
