Small cell, how's it going.

[Lancej]

I am looking at going to small cell wax foundation in my brood boxes. I only know of one commercial operator  running small cell at this stage, does any one have long term experience with it?

[azzkell]

Hi Lance, whats the reason for small cell?
Is it to do with the natural size rather than mans idea if bigger bee bigger harvest?

[Lancej]

Hi Azzkell, smaller bees are meant to develop quicker, have a longer life span, more cells per frame and have more bees in the hive. I'm hoping we get a few updates from those that have changed cell size because there the ones with real time experience.

[Acebird]

Over here small cell is use for a resistance against mites.  I don't think you guys have to deal with mites, do you?

[Michael Bush]

>does any one have long term experience with it?

I've been using nothing but small cell and natural comb since about 2002.

[azzkell]

Lance that makes a whole lot of sense.
I have started using starter strips at top of frame and allowing them to build whatever they wish.
No mite problems where I am thankfully.

[Andersonhoney]

Ace bird, I've been converting to small cell for a few years. It takes a long time, I'm hoping I'll have all my hives converted by the time varroa gets here.

[Captain776]

The Fat Beeman is commercial and runs nothing but small cell