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Date: | Sun, 29 Mar 1998 08:03:06 -0500 |
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I discovered many swarm cells in one of my hives today. There were probably
a dozen on each of five frames. I destroyed those on a couple of frames,
but quit when I realized how many there were.
So, I have 3 frames, each with 2-4 swarm cells. The cells haven't been
capped, but contain larvae floating in royal jelly.
Here's the question: Can I use these frames to make three splits,
effectively dividing this colony into 3-4 hives? I know I won't get much
honey from any of them this spring, but I'm interested in increase anyway.
Besides, with this many swarm cells, these ladies look pretty serious about
dividing themselves.
If I do split them up into nucs, should I destroy all but one swarm cell in
each, or leave them all for insurance and let the new queens sort it out in
each hive?
Finally, When do I do this? As I say, the cells aren't yet capped, but I
seem to recal reading the a swarm normally issues just as the swarm cells
are capped. Should I do it now?, will the new hives have enough nurses to
carry the queens through to full maturity?
Thanks for your help
Greg
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Greg Hankins Mt. Gilead, NC
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