Beekeeping Questions and Answers Episode 97 Let's talk about honey bees!

This is the audio version of the YouTube beekeeping question and answer video episode 97 by Frederick Dunn

Episode questions and time links will appear below in the future. Thanks for listening! 

 

https://youtu.be/IzUUvMw970E  This is the associated video. 

Tim stamps are courtesy of Adam Holmes

1) Considering the HyfeGate, got me thinking about my own hive designs. I wonder why you allowed 1.5" of open space at the bottom of your Horizontal Long Langstroth Hive? 2:44

 

2) I was hoping you could give a shout out to Heroes to Hives: 15:50

 

3) I'm getting two packages of Saskatraz bees this March. When would you test or treat for mites? I only have quickstrips. 19:08

 

4) With spring right around the corner, I'm wondering about feeding my bees. If they have plenty of leftover from their winter stores? 26:02

 

5) I have 32 colonies and so far every one has made it. I have been feeding them dry sugar. They have not consumed their winter stores, I feel like they do not have enough space for laying. What would you recommend? 30:20

 

6) Inspired by your anti-wasp entrance, I have SHB issues and am wondering if I could close my hives at night, or how to reduce the SHBs from getting in. I've seen 30 an hour on hot humid evenings. 36:40

 

7) What is your take on hive insulation to help the bees in all seasons? 45:50

 

8) How long after hiving a nuc and a swarm should I continue feeding? 59:47

 

9) I was going to leave grass beneath my hives, but have concerns that a mower would upset the bees: 1:02:20

 

10) My new hives are Layens design. I was planning to treat with oxalic acid vapor through a port hole. Would this work or should I consider another treatment? 1:04:54

 

11) I remember you mentioned that you picked up a Layens Hive. Did you get the insulated version? Will you be able to raise it high enough for the skunks and still be able to lift the frame out reasonably easily? 1:13:41