Hello All,
For those on the list quietly listening (and possibly taking notes) I will
say the discussion going on is between beekeepers for which I have got the
greatest respect.

A simple question about robbing has drawn out the big guns on the list to
discuss methods. If Charles Harper  or Chuck Norton comes on then the
discussion would be complete.

Michael wrote:
 So, I winter with two deeps and a medium. That gives me just that little
bit of extra time to get around to all my yards before they swarm.

In spring Michael is referring to.

Not unusual or uncommon in a larger operation. The Engles (Texas and other
parts unknown) and several other migratory beekeepers use the above. Dave
Hackenburg uses two deeps and a shallow.

BUT

The main reason for the Engles is the same as Michael and concerns not being
able to work the hives before swarm problems occur and not that the bees
need the brood rearing space. If worked early enough I see no need for the
extra super but understand those which want to use any config. *up to three
deep boxes* which works for those beekeepers.

Also beekeepers doing open feeding like extra brood area in spring to keep
the strong hives from the trees before spring bee work begins. The feed
coming can  plug the brood nest and can cause swarming or the queen is
forced to reduce necessary spring brood rearing.

Bob

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