Hi Ya'll,
I requeened one of my hives right about three weeks ago, and left town immediately thereafter. Yesterday I took my first look. The Queen is there, big as day, no problem. There was some capped brood (sort of spotty pattern) and a handful of larvae. I'd hoped to see a bit better brood pattern by now.
Am I expecting too much, too soon? Does she need a little more time to get to work?
Thanks,
Mp
Is there plenty of pollen stores?
We are in a pretty extreme drought here but they do seem to have plenty of pollen, mostly from weeds and maybe the vegetable garden. I did put a bit of pollen patty in just in case, and I've been feeding syrup. We had Tropical Storm Edourdo a few days ago, but he didn't bring more than a half inch of rain-enough to green up the grass but that's about all.
Maybe they're just being frugal? My other hive has slowed down brood production, but just a little; they weren't queenless though.
I might give her a little more time. She is just starting out and during a drought. If pollen/honey isn't coming into the hive in large enough quantities, she will keep the brood nest small.
Best of luck,
Derrick