The strength of a bee colony is important, but it is difficult to assess without looking inside. Bees are critical for setting a good crop, though the number of hives needed per acre can vary a great deal. Even a self-­fertile cherry variety needs bees to move the pollen around, Eric Olson, a Yakima, Washington, beekeeper and orchardist, said during an industry discussion. “Pollination is critical,” he said. “If you don’t have bees in apples, you will have apples, but the quality and the quantity will be greatly reduced. The same with pears and cherries. If you take a look […]