Hi all.
I am in NJ with one first-year hive. Hive is fairly strong, good numbers with about 50lbs of capped stores for the winter. I did what I expect to be one of the last full inspections of the year although I do anticipate some nice mid-day weather that will allow me back into the hive during the day.
I noticed an extremely small number of bees with deformed wings. Mites have not been an issue as of late and since this discovery, I have been checking all larvae exiting the hive escorted by a worker (I assume this is coinciding with the drone evictions) to no conclusion as I have seen no mites on them either.
To play it safe, is it too late to feed some patties with EOs (Wintergreen/Spearmint and Tea Tree Oils)?
Thanks all
/Chris in NJ
While dealing with mites anytime is a good time, you may of missed dealing with any high infestations prior to them effecting the fall brood cycle. It is always best to treat or knock down the mites prior to the fall brood season (15 Aug - 15 Oct) so the fall brood is raised healthy and unaffected by mites, viral, and other factors.
The patties certainly will not hurt. And as I said, killing mites is good anytime. But the DWV is an indication that the damage has been done.
Can you leave a grease patty on over the winter? or in freezing temps?