Last year's bees were pretty much a disaster - they failed quickly, perhaps swarmed, got shameless robbed, then died to moth infestation
So, here we are, once again with 2 new packages and brand new hopes.
So on with the jounal
One week ago we added the new packages. For the first time ever, my queens were marked. Let me say this - if you are new to beekeeping ALWAYS get your queens marked - what a difference it makes
Today was first inspection - Hive on left much stronger than right. Found both queens (easily thanks to their neon green mark).There were strong signs of pollen, syrup and nectar. Removed queen cages, made sure they had syrup and closed them up.
Will check on them at end of week to make sure feeders are filled.
Next full check will be May 6th - where they will be three weeks. At this time the hives should show capped brood and depending on how many frames are filled/active I will add 2nd hive body. This is also the check to make sure brood is being laid properly and queen is doing well...
So, here we are, once again with 2 new packages and brand new hopes.
So on with the jounal
One week ago we added the new packages. For the first time ever, my queens were marked. Let me say this - if you are new to beekeeping ALWAYS get your queens marked - what a difference it makes
Today was first inspection - Hive on left much stronger than right. Found both queens (easily thanks to their neon green mark).There were strong signs of pollen, syrup and nectar. Removed queen cages, made sure they had syrup and closed them up.
Will check on them at end of week to make sure feeders are filled.
Next full check will be May 6th - where they will be three weeks. At this time the hives should show capped brood and depending on how many frames are filled/active I will add 2nd hive body. This is also the check to make sure brood is being laid properly and queen is doing well...