What is a common method to strengthen a colony against diseases?

Providing adequate feeding is a fundamental method to strengthen a bee colony against diseases. Well-fed bees are more capable of maintaining optimal health and resilience. Adequate nutrition enhances their immune system, supports brood rearing, and promotes the overall vitality of the colony. When bees have access to sufficient food sources, they can better fend off pathogens and pests, as a strong and healthy colony is less susceptible to disease.

Nutrition also influences the development of the brood, with well-fed worker bees being able to produce more royal jelly and other essential nutrients, which can help nurse bees take better care of the larvae. This, in turn, can lead to a more robust population that can withstand environmental stresses and illnesses.

In contrast, other options such as increasing hive infestations or burning uncapped brood do not directly contribute to the health and strength of the colony. Isolating the colony from others may reduce exposure to diseases but does not improve the colony's inherent strength or health. Therefore, providing adequate feeding stands out as a proactive and positive approach to enhancing a colony's defenses against diseases.