I moved from Houston to Arkansas last year and started over with 2 packages here in N Arkansas. Only one made it (long story) and I left all the honey and it looks like a strong hive.
I am looking for advice on over-wintering my hive since the winters are much different here. I do not know any local beeks yet to ask advice and I travel a lot in my job so no time to seek out a local club yet.
Currently I have the tray installed under my screened bottom board and still have the vented section between my cover and top deep. It is about a 4" tall box with holes cut it it and screens tacked over the holes.
Thanks in advance.
Sara,
I use screen top boards on my hives and leave them there all year around. If you want to keep you vented top boards on your hive, I suggest that get an 1/2" or thicker foam insulation board (I use the ones with foil on both sides) and cut it to the size of the inside of your cover and place it over the vents. You could also use an old towel or rags as an insulator.
Jim