I'm nearing my first fall as a beek. So far, no problems with the neighbors and I'd like to keep it that way. I have a question that I hope someone can help with.
Background: My best neighbors (no, I don't really rank them, but they are very good neighbors) have a mimosa tree hanging over their deck and hot tub. Now that the dry weather is here, the tree is dropping sap onto the deck and the hot tub cover. Each morning there are hundreds, maybe thousands, of bees working these surfaces. Yesterday my neighbors called me over to ask if the bees were about to set up shop under the deck. It was obviously not a swarm, and I assured them of that. Just lots and lots of feeding. In fact, they weren't even my bees but mutts like the ferals that I see in our area...and they head in a direction away from my hives when they are done feeding. (yes, I have made a note of that for the Spring). However, the fact my neighbors have expressed concern has me thinking that a helping hand could go a long way toward maintaining our neighborly relationship. That, and honey if some becomes available next spring.
Question: I suggested that powerwashing the deck could go a long way, but I am not sure if this would work. Does anyone have experience with a similar situation, neighbors or not? I'd love to hear any and all suggestions. Thanks in advance.
Background: My best neighbors (no, I don't really rank them, but they are very good neighbors) have a mimosa tree hanging over their deck and hot tub. Now that the dry weather is here, the tree is dropping sap onto the deck and the hot tub cover. Each morning there are hundreds, maybe thousands, of bees working these surfaces. Yesterday my neighbors called me over to ask if the bees were about to set up shop under the deck. It was obviously not a swarm, and I assured them of that. Just lots and lots of feeding. In fact, they weren't even my bees but mutts like the ferals that I see in our area...and they head in a direction away from my hives when they are done feeding. (yes, I have made a note of that for the Spring). However, the fact my neighbors have expressed concern has me thinking that a helping hand could go a long way toward maintaining our neighborly relationship. That, and honey if some becomes available next spring.
Question: I suggested that powerwashing the deck could go a long way, but I am not sure if this would work. Does anyone have experience with a similar situation, neighbors or not? I'd love to hear any and all suggestions. Thanks in advance.