[newbee01]

Hi,

I just aquired a bee hive about 7 days ago. We have 10 acres and had wanted bee's to help pollenate our property and possibly end up with some honey. So I found a person that was selling bee hives and I jumped at the opportunity. So they delivered them and there appears to be alot of them in the two deep hives. I actually haven't opened it since to give the bees time to acclimate to their new home. Anyway when they dropped it off they mentioned many things, but one that stuck out was the bee's might swarm and leave, and I have about two weeks. So,my most pressing question is what should I do. My initial thought is to add another deep hive to give them room to expand and also a honey super.Do I put the new deep hive on top or bottom. I assume if I add a honey supper it would go on top? Anyway please forgive my ramblings I'm simply looking for some advise.

Thank you,
Richard

 

[indypartridge]

Hello and Welcome!

It sounds like you jumped in head first! This is a good forum to learn more about bees and beekeeping. Be sure to check out the "How to Start Beekeeping" subforum: lots of good info on the basics.

Also, check your library for books/videos on beekeeping. There are also a lot of good sites on beginning beekeeping on the web. One in particular I'll recommend is Michael Bush's site. He has particular sections on swarm control and doing splits that will help answer the specific questions you asked:
http://www.bushfarms.com/bees.htm

I also recommend getting involved in a beekeeping club. Clubs are great for finding mentors and getting connected to the local beekeeping community. Check these links for local clubs:
http://www.wasba.org/local.htm
http://www.orsba.org/htdocs/regionalbranch.php

 

[AmericasBeekeeper]

You have had them closed up for a week? How long can you go without going to the bathroom? They must fly to dump! Release them please. They are more likely to swarm now. That is a technique queen breeders use to stimulate swarming behavior and queen production.

 

[newbee01]

Hi I guess I needed to add a little more detail. They have access out by two small openings one at the bottom (3" x 1/2" approximately) and one in the middle ( 1-1/2" x 2"). I simply haven't opened up the top to look in.
Thanks for your advise.