Two Hives from packages, unequal strength 6 weeks later . . .

[iwlf]

Hello Group,

I have two hives started from packages March 31. One is doing very well, the other . . . ok. The hives are placed side-by-side about 2 feet apart on the same stand. I suspect I'm getting a bit of drifting as the bushes encourage the bees to fly out from the second hive sort of past the first one.

What to do?

1) It is what it is, leave 'em alone
2) Switch hive positions so the other hive is "first in line"
3) Take frames from stronger, put in other hive
4) Try to split stronger hive for a 3rd hive

Suggestions?

Thanks!

Two Hives on a Stand

[David LaFerney]

Dang. Nice paint jobs. I would do either 1 or 2.

And 3 if possible.

Make increase often and early until you have all you want. Better to go into winter with 2 smallish hives that 1 big one IMHO.

[tsk]

I'd go with #2.

[beeware10]

let them go a couple of weeks. If you feel they are unequal take a frame of brood from the strong and give to the weak. (make sure not to take queen) they will soon be the same. good luck

[Scrapfe]

5) how's about trimming bushes?

[Ravenseye]

I'd probably switch hives but over time, they tend to even out. If you don't want to switch hives (nucs are a lot easier when you have to do that), just move a frame....maybe two.

[iwlf]

5) how's about trimming bushes?

I think I'm going to rotate the stand so they don't have to pass by one hive to get to the other. I love messing about with bees, anyway!