drawing comb slowly

[jl]

I have one hive and it is my first.  I started with all new equipment and no drawn frames.  I installed the bees in a deep hive body and they drew this out in about 4 to 5 weeks.  I then added a second deep hive body and they fully drew this one out in a week and half.  I then added a third about three weeks ago.  This third deep has bees in it during inspection, but they have drawn very little comb in the last three weeks.  I guess my question is, Why the slow dow?  Is it caused by a slow or non-existent flow?  The queen is still laying well and the bees are coming and going like crazy but seen with pollen.  Thanks in advance

[reinbeau]

You've given them lots of room, perhaps too much.  Why the third deep?  Two deeps is the usual brood chamber, after that you really ought to add mediums for honey supers - deeps are awfully heavy full of honey!  I think you've moved a bit quickly, even though they've drawn the second deep, they've no doubt not filled it.  I'd take away that third one for now until they really need more room - then give them honey supers, whatever size you've settled on.

[Scadsobees]

Most likely the flow slowed down.  They will work on it as the resources come in.  If the 1st and 2nd are drawn out, then they do need the extra room, even if they don't use it right away.

Rick

[jl]

I added the third deep because I want to get another three pound package of bees next year and want them to have a head start by having a deep already drawn out, hence the third one.  I don't care if I get excess honey this year, it's my first year and I wasn't expecting anything this year anyway. But if everyting works out, next year my package will have a deep body with allready drawn comb.  Not really concerned about it. just curious if it was normal for them to slow down or if it was indicative of some type of disease or problem.  THanks for the responses.

Jeff