On Thu, 3 Jul 1997, Allen Dick wrote: > but are there any other advantages/disadvantages to using burlap? > > We do use burlap where we do not use plastic pillows. We have given up > wood because of gaps and propolization and the need for scraping -- and > also the fact that wood squashes bees unless extra care is taken. > > The only real problem we have found is that burlap is not good for > wintering under wood because burlap holds moisture and moulds. If there > is sufficient provision for breathing above the burlap, it works well in > winter too. > > Although burlap allows for putting queen cages on top bars for queen intro > and also permits insertion of grease or pollen patties when required, > using TM dust is a problem because the bees do not get to the drug unless > sticks or some such are placed close to the dust to hold the sack up so > the bees can get to it. Folding sacks to fit the top of a hive can also > be a bit of a nuisance sometimes until they get creased and gummed up and > stay in the correct shape. > We make our insulating inner covers with a 1/4 inch rim and leave them on year round. There is some burr comb built between the frame bars and the cover but it is certainly not a problem. What is the purpose of the burlap or plastic pillows? Donald Aitken 11710-129 Street Edmonton Alberta Canada T5M 0Y7