So I've got a baby due in early May, which is going to pretty much put the kaibosh on my ability to intensively work hives this year. Im hoping to nuc my hives down pretty hard as early as possible and place purchased Queens In them so I can get them gone quick. I normally breed my Queens, bit I just don't see how I can pull that off this year.
What signs do you all look for that let you know that it's ok to start breaking hives up to make nucs? I don't want to do it too early and have a bunch of old tired winter bees who won't be able to survive. Too late and I won't have the time to actually deal with them. Im in zone 5b and generally start to see maple pollen show up around March 5th.
Im fine with no honey this year, in fact I would prefer it.
Thanks!
What signs do you all look for that let you know that it's ok to start breaking hives up to make nucs? I don't want to do it too early and have a bunch of old tired winter bees who won't be able to survive. Too late and I won't have the time to actually deal with them. Im in zone 5b and generally start to see maple pollen show up around March 5th.
Im fine with no honey this year, in fact I would prefer it.
Thanks!