3# package into ?

[willyC]

I have a 5 frame Nuc and a 10 frame deep available, with a 3# package (with queen) due here on the 28th, which would you introduce them into and why. I know they will eventually end up in the deep 10.
Temps are running in the 30's at night with no sign of change so I lean toward Nuc.
If I can give them a frame of honey will I still need to feed 1:1?
I have 3 other hives, all well populated, should I consider giving them more honey, brood, pollen, a back rub

Willy
zone 4
elevation 6500
Wyoming

[jadell]

One of the best pieces of advice I ever ignored was to feed a package when I started out in your same situation. Needless to say I ended up feeding them later because they were really slow to draw comb. I should've listened. I now always recommend feeding packages. The frame of honey is already stored, so there's no incentive to get to building new comb. The syrup encourages them to build comb because they need a place to store it. I'm indifferent on the box size since it sounds like you've already decided.

[MrHappy]

Since you already have a few hives, are you placing the new bees on drawn or undrawn frames? If its drawn, don't think you would need to feed. They would prob just store it all instead of making wax. I feed all mine since all mine are going on undrawn. But my mentor doesn't ever feed because he uses the fully drawn plastic frames.

As for size, I'd think to put them in the 10. They can cluster and keep warm and I think moving them less is better. If they are going to be going in a 10 frame then put them in the 10 so they get their scent on it and you don't have to move them later.

[Charlie B]

If you're in the 30's at night, I would start them out in the nuc. Feed until they draw out the frames and then transfer to the 10 frame.