I installed some packages last year and placed them largely on drawn comb (4-5 frames of 10). One blew up in a month and swarmed (which I caught). I treated only once with mite-away quick strips on top of the frames in Sept. Only one of these hives survived the winter and there was mite poop in many cells.
I have some Russian queens coming this week from Coy's to use on a few splits. I am tempted to get rid of this old gal as all she did last year was maintain a small population. I am a little reluctant to replace her just yet though as she did at least survive, lays a good pattern, etc.
Full disclosure: last year my job consumed too much of my time and I neglected the bees on all fronts. This year they are receiving good nutrition, bedtime stories etc.
To requeen of not to requeen? You input is appreciated.
Leave her and treat for mites. Give her brood a chance to become healthy adults for a change.
Fair enough. We have come back from vacation and she has cranked up production in the last 2-3 weeks. I popped the top this morning and there are 4-5 frames solid coverage and she has laid up the vacant cells.
Sometimes bees get so low in population and if things are tough they can grow out of there situation without the input of Spring and the better weather.
We have had 2 frames of bees and a queen grow out in Spring on good conditions
Thanks! We've had a cool wet May and I wasn't holding out much hope for her, or the colony. But she had laid a couple of frames and they have emerged. Now they have more help.
It's good to know they can come back from very small numbers. Thanks again! jo