Re-Queened hive

[IsleWx]

Hi Ya'll,

I requeened one of my hives right about three weeks ago, and left town immediately thereafter.  Yesterday I took my first look.  The Queen is there, big as day, no problem.  There was some capped brood (sort of spotty pattern) and a handful of larvae.  I'd hoped to see a bit better brood pattern by now.

Am I expecting too much, too soon?  Does she need a little more time to get to work?

Thanks,

Mp

[dpence]

Is there plenty of pollen stores? 

[IsleWx]

We are in a pretty extreme drought here but they do seem to have plenty of pollen, mostly from weeds and maybe the vegetable garden.  I did put a bit of pollen patty in just in case, and I've been feeding syrup.  We had Tropical Storm Edourdo a few days ago, but he didn't bring more than a half inch of rain-enough to green up the grass but that's about all.

Maybe they're just being frugal?  My other hive has slowed down brood production, but just a little; they weren't queenless though.

[derrick1p1]

I might give her a little more time.  She is just starting out and during a drought.  If pollen/honey isn't coming into the hive in large enough quantities, she will keep the brood nest small.

Best of luck,
Derrick