Flow Supers are not suitable for winter storage due to the bees' natural behavior of consuming honey upwards during colder months. If left in place, the queen may lay eggs in the plastic Flow Frames, leading to complications and mess. It is recommended to remove Flow Supers in the fall to prevent these issues and ensure the colony's health through winter.
Key Points Explained:
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Bees' Winter Honey Consumption Pattern
- Bees naturally move upward in the hive during winter as they consume stored honey.
- If a Flow Super remains in place, bees may cluster in this upper box, disrupting their natural movement and food access.
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Risk of Queen Laying in Flow Frames
- The plastic Flow Frames can inadvertently become brood chambers if the queen moves up.
- This creates a messy situation, as brood rearing in plastic frames complicates hive management and honey harvesting later.
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Fall Removal Recommendation
- Removing Flow Supers before winter ensures bees rely on traditional honeycomb frames below.
- This aligns with beekeeping best practices, preventing unnecessary stress on the colony.
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Alternative Winter Storage Solutions
- Use standard deep or medium boxes with drawn comb for winter stores.
- Ensure adequate ventilation and insulation to support the colony’s survival in cold climates.
By following these guidelines, beekeepers can maintain hive health and avoid the pitfalls of improper winter storage setups. Have you considered how seasonal hive adjustments impact long-term colony productivity?
Summary Table:
| Key Consideration | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Bees' upward honey consumption | Flow Supers disrupt natural winter movement |
| Queen may lay in plastic frames | Creates messy brood chambers |
| Fall removal recommended | Prevents colony stress |
| Use standard boxes instead | Better for winter stores |
Need help preparing your hives for winter? Contact HONESTBEE for expert advice on seasonal beekeeping equipment and practices.
