Equalization of Bee Colonies

[riverbee]

this is a good pdf file on the equalization/strength of bee colonies with some good pix and diagrams, just the first paragraph:

"The aim of equalizing bee colonies is to make weak and strong colonies in the apiary of a similar strength before the nectar flow. We do this by boosting a weak colony by giving it either some brood or extra bees from a strong colony. There are many factors that may contribute to weakening of a colony. However, weak colonies are slow to build up, do not develop into strong colonies if they are left alone, have a smaller number of foraging bees,and produce little honey even if a good nectar flow exists. They are vulnerable to robbing by robber bees from stronger colonies. Strengthening those that are not too weak will speed up their growth a great deal and reduce the chances that the strong ones will swarm."

the author discusses:

Colony strength
The advantages of the equalization/disadvantages
Methods of Equalization
Uniting Honey bees by the newspaper method
Requeening A Hive

Equalization of Bee Colonies Strength

[litefoot]

That's a great reference, River. Thanks!

[apisbees]

This is one of the first hive manipulations of the year for me. In part to get all colonies ready for the pollination of fruit trees, which alines with the dandelion flow. What we want is to equalize so all the hives being placed in the orchards are strong enough to provide the pollination needed but also that they have room to expand and store the nectar and pollen collected. The industry standard for a pollination unit strength is min 5 frames of brood and 8 frames of bees. I like to send out 6 to 7 frames of brood and 9 to 10 frames of bees. By equalizing to a set size pollination unit. It provides consistency in colony strength, and provides swarm management for the April May swarming times.