Can I keep bees in a straw skep?
No, honey bees are required to be kept in a beehive with removable frames. This is to allow inspection for diseases. It is the law in all states. • When should I add a second hive body or super? You should add the second hive body or super when the majority of the frames in the first hive body are fully drawn out, (8 or 9 frames). A second super should be added after the first super is about one half full. • How much honey should I leave on the hive to over winter? As a general rule you should have a full super or second hive body and 20 to 30 pounds of honey in the brood nest. This will amount to a total of 60 to 70 pounds of honey for winter and early spring consumption. • What should I look for in spring in the colony? You should check for evidence that the Queen is laying eggs. You should also check the honey stores and pollen supply. If the honey stores are low you may start feeding sugar syrup in a two to one ratio of sugar and water. The bees may consume about 10 pounds of sugar
