Moldy Frames?

[Bodecia Arietty]

Some of our frames got left out in the rain this year, and when we went to go put them away we noticed some had little spots of mold on them. Is it still OK to use them or will it hurt the bees?

[Dave W]

Yes, moldy frames can be used.

If you do a search, here on BeeSource, for "moldy frames", you can find many other comments about "moldy frames". :)

But, please keep ask questions :)

[Mabe]

You can also try brushing the mold off with a soft bench brush (the kind used in a woodshop)...although probably any soft brush would work. I was surprised at how well the comb held up to some pretty vigorous brushing and it was new comb. I've also rinsed mold off of combs with the hose with some success. Have even used Lysol spray afterwards to make sure spores were all inactivated...but air dried well afterward...bees didn't seem to mind. I've been told the bees will clean up moldy frames, but mine seem to be as OCD as I am...they don't work moldy frames.

Mabe:)

[kenpkr]

If you have the room to put them in your freezer overnight that should kill any active fungus but then again, in Michigan your garage might do just the trick now that it's colder out. I would NOT put Lysol on them. But don't worry, once you put them back on the hives the bees will clean up any leftover mold.

[TwT]

dont do nothing to them but store them, when ready to use put back on the hives and the girls will clean it all up fine and dandy!!