As far as my experience goes the propolis collection will depend on

1.- Type of bee. Some of the colonies are great propolis collector some not.
Most people select for not propolis as it is a pain ... to work those hives.
I think this is a mistake.
2.- Strenght of the colony. When you place propolis mesh/collector on top of
the frames bees need to feel unconfortable / crowded to fill the mesh with
propolis. In this regard placing the formic pads on top of the mesh greatly
improve the collection of propolis (4x)
3.- Finally propolis collection will depend on surrounding floral sources.
Bees collect propolis from many sources, not only from trees. They gather
from grass, bushes, even road bitumen!!! if in need

For those of us who use chemical to treat varroa, we need to take out the
propolis collector when the treatment is on, so as not contaminate the
propolis.


-- 
Juanse Barros J.
APIZUR S.A.
Carrera 695
Gorbea - CHILE
+56-45-271693
08-3613310
http://apiaraucania.blogspot.com/
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