Having lost a hive last year to wax moths, I ordered some Certan and wish to treat my hives. I have read the instructions and all forum posts but I still have a question or two.
1. Can I treat my existing hives? Do I just open the hive and remove each frame and spray both sides? Spray bees, eggs, brood, pollen, and honey? I know that you treat the wax, but all my wax is in use by my bees.
2. Do I spray new undrawn foundation? Perco?
Please advise, Steve
Steve, I only use certan on cutout hives or weak hives, this is when they are most vulnerable to waxmoth. A strong hive will not have a waxmoth problem. If you want to spray your hives you can though. The claim is that it doesn't hurt the bees or your honey.
Sincerely, JP
>1. Can I treat my existing hives?
Yes.
> Do I just open the hive and remove each frame and spray both sides?
Yes.
>Spray bees, eggs, brood, pollen, and honey?
What's in the brood nest, yes. I would skip the supers until after the honey has been harvested.
>2. Do I spray new undrawn foundation? Perco?
Yes.
Thanks Michael and JP.
I will plan to treat my hives in early spring. I hope to never have to worry about wax moths again. That is if I remain diligent with treatment as I add new equipment.
Steve