Protecting drawn frames requires halting pest lifecycles immediately. Once cleaned, drawn frames from a dead hive must be stored in a secure, moth-proof environment or subjected to freezing techniques to prevent wax moth infestations until they are ready for new colonies.
The greatest threat to stored drawn comb is the wax moth, which can destroy valuable resources rapidly. Your primary goal is to eliminate existing pests through temperature control and prevent re-infestation through physical barriers.
Prerequisite: Safe Removal of Frames
Before protection can begin, you must remove the frames without damaging the wooden ware or the comb structure.
Breaking the Propolis Seals
Frames in a dead hive are often cemented in place. First, use the corner of a hive tool’s flat blade to cut away any wax bridges connecting the target frame to adjacent combs.
Next, slice through the propolis that glues the frame's end bars to the hive wall.
Leveraging the Frame
Avoid sliding the blade between wooden end bars, as this can damage the wood. Instead, use the bent-over end of the hive tool as a lever between the top edges of the frames to widen the space.
Lifting the Frame
Once space is created, use the tool's hook or flat blade to pry the frame ends upward. Lift the frame straight out, keeping your hive tool in hand in case additional prying is required during the lift.
Preservation Strategies
Once the frames are removed and cleaned, you must actively defend them against pests.
The Threat of Wax Moths
Drawn comb is highly attractive to wax moths. Without a colony of bees to patrol and guard the frames, moths will lay eggs that hatch into larvae. These larvae burrow through the wax, destroying the structural integrity of the comb.
Freezing Techniques
Freezing is a highly effective method for sterilization. Placing drawn frames in a freezer kills wax moths at all stages of development, including eggs and larvae.
This ensures that the comb is biologically neutral and safe for storage or immediate introduction to a new hive.
Secure, Moth-Proof Storage
If you do not plan to use the frames immediately, they must be stored in a secure environment.
After freezing, the frames should be placed in a sealed container or bag that is impenetrable to moths. This prevents adult moths from accessing the comb to lay new eggs.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
When managing drawn comb, there are operational trade-offs to consider.
The Risk of Ambient Storage
Storing frames in the open air, such as in a garage or shed without sealing them, invites almost certain destruction by wax moths. Physical isolation is mandatory.
Moisture Management
While sealing frames prevents pests, it can trap moisture. Ensure frames are dry before sealing them in moth-proof containers to prevent mold growth, which renders the comb unusable for bees.
Damage During Extraction
Rushing the removal process often leads to broken top bars or damaged ears. Taking the time to properly cut propolis and lever frames creates a smoother workflow and preserves your equipment.
Making the Right Choice for Your Goal
Whether you are starting a nucleus colony or installing package bees, the quality of your drawn comb is critical.
- If your primary focus is immediate reuse: Prioritize freezing to ensure no live pests are introduced to the new colony or package bees.
- If your primary focus is long-term storage: Combine freezing to kill pests with sealed containers to maintain a moth-proof barrier over time.
By effectively securing your drawn frames, you preserve a valuable resource that significantly accelerates the growth of future colonies.
Summary Table:
| Method | Action Required | Primary Benefit | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Freezing | Place frames in freezer for 24-48 hrs | Kills moth eggs and larvae | Sterilizing before reuse |
| Sealing | Use airtight, moth-proof containers | Prevents re-infestation | Long-term winter storage |
| Drying | Air-dry frames before sealing | Prevents mold and mildew | Maintaining comb health |
| Manual Prep | Use hive tool to clear propolis | Prevents frame/comb damage | Safe frame removal |
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