New comb

[Galaxy55]

Read with interest the posts on Bailey Comb method. How often does this need to happen?

 

[Heather]

Usually every 3 years, when brood cells become dark brown and grim looking. There is more prevalence for bacteria spores building up.

 

[testka]

Personally every year. May be excessive but I would rather they start the year with nice new comb to minimise nasties from old comb causing any issues later on. I do fumigated and keep comb which is not too old for nucs. The rest is melted down for candles , creams , etc.

 

[Galaxy55]

Thanks Heather - needs doing on the 4 hives I'm taking on then - is it too late now?

 

[Erichalfbee]

I started two on Friday. I am not feeding ( perhaps this is the wrong decision but we will see in a week) as they have a super of uncapped nectar on top, dandelions are out and weather is warm in the day. If I put my ear to the new brood box I can hear the crackling of drawing comb

NBU says March till July is OK

 

[Heather]

Not too late.. are these hives new to you? Do you know if treated for varroa.

If they were mine and getting from another source, I would def change all if I was told they hadn't been treated. And use the opportunity to dump the brood, treat with Oxalic, then feed like mad to help them build. But that would be by Shook rather than Bailey. (Don't forget QE under brood box as they will be bit miffed)

If good history, go Bailey.