How do I keep bee colonies alive in the lean (dearth) season?

The dearth (lean) period, when little is flowering, is when colonies weaken, rob each other and abscond. Core practices: feed sugar syrup and protein (pollen substitute) to keep brood going, reduce or close down extra space so a smaller colony can defend itself, keep colonies strong and queen-right, provide water and shade in summer, and watch for robbing. Many commercial beekeepers migrate boxes to wherever something is flowering rather than letting bees starve in one place. Also manage pests like wax moth in weak colonies and keep equipment clean. For specific colony health and any disease or mite issue, follow guidance from a trained beekeeping expert or your KVK or State Bee Board, since wrong feeding or medication can harm the colony.