Beekeepers raise queen bees from fertilized larvae. Honeybee colonies are induced to produce new queen bees by manipulating different colony attributes. The development of a new queen bee is controlled by an experienced beekeeper for several purposes including, the use of the new queen to start its own colony to …
Read More »Electric Embedders for Frame Wiring
Electric embedders help you get through the job of setting wax onto beehive frames faster and with more accurate results. Perhaps you’ve never heard of embedding before; indeed, setting up and maintaining a great honeybee colony requires beekeepers to carry out a long list of activities. Among them is preparing …
Read More »The Steps to Take When Requeening a Hive
Requeening a beehive is an essential and beneficial practice for beekeepers, aimed at maintaining hive health and productivity. Key reasons for requeening include the aging or death of the current queen, poor egg-laying, or to manage aggressive colonies. The process involves carefully introducing a new queen, either directly or indirectly, to ensure acceptance by the hive. It's advised to requeen at least biennially, considering factors like colony aggression and hive size. Beekeepers must be prepared for challenges like queen rejection in aggressive hives and should follow specific steps to ensure a smooth transition.
Read More »Pollen Patties – Are They Necessary?
Pollen patties, a bee food used to boost brood production, are crucial in areas with limited natural forage or in intensively managed hives. While hives can survive without supplements, lack of adequate pollen can lead to weak colonies and reduced brood rearing. Pollen patties, which contain ingredients like vitamins, lemon juice, and yeast, are used to feed larvae, stimulating royal jelly production. They should be carefully placed and provided in appropriate quantities, considering factors like colony size and season. Used judiciously, pollen patties can enhance colony strength, especially in early spring or for raising queens and splits, but should not replace natural pollen.
Read More »What Does Dark Honeycomb Mean?
Explore the significance of dark honeycomb in our enlightening article. It's a valuable resource for beekeepers and honey enthusiasts alike, explaining why honeycomb can turn dark and what it indicates about a beehive's health and history. Understanding these aspects is key to effective beekeeping and appreciating the natural lifecycle of a hive.
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