Honey flow is just about to start. I've always thought one of the best ways to build up the hive populations in anticipation of the flow would be to add caught swarms to the hive/s, probably with a newspaper combine. That way you'd be adding thousands more bees at just the time they are needed to collect surplus nectar.
What would be wrong with this strategy? Would the combine disrupt the hive in some way that would be detrimental to honey production? I take swarm calls but I really don't want any more hives right now. This would enable me to still make use of the swarms I collect and strengthen the hives I already have. I'd just let the queens (if I get one with the swarm) eventually fight it out.
Pros and cons????
Linda D
Nothing wrong with your plan except don't let the queens fight...you may end up with both dead.
Scott
Agree with hardwood. YOU choose the queen. If your hive is weak, the swarm queen may be a good choice.