I have a hive that was a late split. They did great all winter now seem to be struggling. They are only covering and using five frames. The brood pattern looks good and no indications of any problems. Any thoughts or suggestions on what to do. I have been feeding them since they didn't have much for stores and now giving 1 to 1 syrup.
Feeding and adding bees are the only 2 things I know to do.
Bailey
With the nightime temperature getting warmer feed, feed, and feed some more (1:1 sugar water) and if you have a couple of strong hives add bees from them. Then feed some more till they quit taking the 1:1.
Can I add a frame from another hive bees and all? They won't fight?
Smoke them real good, and if it is a warn day you can spray them with sugar water and add the frame.
They have been struggling to gain momentum (or at least that's what it sounds like). They can only raise two new bees for every nurse bee they have so boost the young nurse bees by giving them a frame of emerging brood.
Scott
5 full frames in the spring doesn't sound too bad. If the q is OK, I think you will see that hive explode with bees in the next few weeks.
Jim
Thanks, a little reassurance help.
Keep us updated on how they do in the next couple of weeks.
Jim
yes I have a week hive too
I'll feed them till they stop taking the syrup.
our flow has just started here. so. I am confidant she'll start laying lots more.
the new swarm I just caught seams buizzier than our second hive which we have had for a few weeks.
jay
jluker, also look to see if there is a heavy pollen frame next to the brood. If so, move it out one space and add an empty frame in it's place. A queen will not skip a frame and lay in the next one. She will stay in that confined area all summer until the pollen is gone.