winter prep

[hypostatic]

Hi all, im looking for someone who has smith hives I can get some advice on for winter preparation.

Its my first hive and they been going really strong so don't want to loose them over winter for some stupid mistakes.

So have some questions in regards to Haynes bee manual and wintering.

Please send me a private message if you are able to help with this.

Thanks

Dave

[gavin]

In case no-one replies Dave, you could add to this thread: http://www.sbai.org.uk/sbai_forum/showthread.php?1404-Whisper-it-winter-preps-!

Smiths are no different from Nationals.

1. Build or unite to 8+ frames of bees
2. Ensure plenty of young bees were raised in Aug/Sep/Oct
3. Make sure Varroa was properly under control (not too late now)
4. They'll need 7/8 full frames of stores, can top up with overhead fondant through the winter (you're near the bakery wholesaler BFP)
5. Have to be mouse-proof, and if hives are wood a sheet of 50mm Kingspan over the crownboard helps too.
6. Don't open them other than to dribble oxalic in December to clean them for the coming season, and very occasional peeks at stores. Don't lift a frame until a warm day in April (maybe March).

Do all that, check them through the winter for mouse protection, and top-up fondant if required, and your winter losses will be *way* below the national average.

[The Drone Ranger]

That covers it Gavin :)