Guilfordbeekeepers.org

If the space within the hive bodies is too expansive for the number of bees-will they have a difficult time keeping the colony warm? Is there ever a time when you reduce the number of brood boxes/supers? thanks.

Yes..,. You should strive to keep 60 to 90% of the hive populated. No more than 40% empty space, no less than 10% empty space. It can't always be done, but that should be your goal.

hi to Rob and Wally,

I would love to get a mentor's opinion on the health of our hive before cold weather sets in. Any chance of a visit sometime in early September?
You've been a great help to us in the past, and we certainly appreciate it.

I would be happy to come by and have a look. Give me a call at 740-1703 (cell) and we can figure out a date/time.

Rob

DITTO. I am available to anyone who may need another opinion on your hives.

One thing that would be helpful is if you are planning on doing mite treatments if needed, get your mite counts done (sticky board or sugar roll). That will tell a lot about your hive and Winter survival.

Thanks guys! I'll talk to the family and offer a couple of options for days/times---and I'll do a mite count 24 hours before your visit.

A mite count needs to be 3 consecutive 24 hour periods.