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Fri, 25 May 2007 12:17:33 EDT |
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Eric:
My experiments with screened bottom boards have produced best results as
follows:
1) Blocking most of the airflow through the screen bottom with a piece of
sheet metal, plastic strip, etc below the screen bottom until the bees have
enough population to maintain brood temps easily. I observed consistent
problems with spring buildup and production performance before implementing this
change. Can leave airflow block in place year round. Good way to monitor mite
fall if checked regularly.
2) Usage of a slotted rack above the screened bottom board. I have
observed works best with boomer colonies,all extra space between slots and bottom
board is jammed with bees. Also,minimizes hanging out on hive entrance or
sides.
3) Additional ventilation provided through inner cover screen, propping
hive cover, etc. Again, my observation is this works best with a strong colony.
In a dry year, like we have had here this year, my colonies have performed
well with no additional ventilation.
4) Crowding the bees near the end of the nectar flow encourages/speeds the
capping process.
Jerry Wallace
Atlanta,Ga
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