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Informed Discussion of Beekeeping Issues and Bee Biology

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Subject:
From:
David & Sarah Grew-Foss <[log in to unmask]>
Reply To:
Informed Discussion of Beekeeping Issues and Bee Biology <[log in to unmask]>
Date:
Fri, 19 May 2000 22:30:33 -0700
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Bob Young asks about experience with eucalyptus as it produces so much
pollen.  Here is my two cents on the subject.  From a beekeeping point of
view eucalyptus is great.  Here in northern california there are great
stands of it that bloom from December through July.  In fact we have such a
short down time it is hard to do two varroa treatments a year, many hobbists
such as I am only do one.  The honey is light and delicious.  The pollen
keeps the gals happy all winter to the point that  our hives get
"packed-out" in January and february causing eary swarming.

However, from a botanical, enviornmental point of view they are a scourge.
They tend to be very invasive in california, their shallow roots, quick
growth, and the oils in their leaves inhibiting other plants from growing.
They like the moisture of seeps which can be delicately balanced ecosystems
that they ten destroy.  They do not hold the soil well and can help erosion
of cliffs near the sea.  They are also a fire hazard... I would recommend
some serious thought before growing them in Texas, perhaps consult a
botanist about how they would act in your climate.

Sarah Grew
Richmond, CA

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