Adding new foundation during a nectar dearth usually results in damage rather than expansion. Without an incoming source of nectar, the colony will not draw out the comb. Instead, the bees will frequently chew holes through the new foundation, permanently ruining the sheets and leading to defective finished combs.
Core Insight: Wax production is strictly driven by resource availability. If you provide foundation without a corresponding nectar flow (or supplemental feed), the bees will treat the foundation as a disposable resource rather than a building material, destroying it in the process.
Understanding the Physical Consequences
The Destruction of Foundation
When resources are scarce, bees engage in destructive behaviors regarding new wax foundation.
Rather than secreting new wax to build the cell walls, they will gnaw at the foundation sheet itself.
This results in large, irregular holes chewed directly through the midrib of the foundation.
Poor Quality Finished Combs
The damage caused during a dearth is often permanent.
Even when the nectar flow returns, the bees rarely repair these chewed sections correctly.
The result is "poorly drawn finished combs," which may contain irregular cell sizes or gaps that are unsuitable for brood rearing or efficient honey storage.
The Relationship Between Flow and Wax
The Necessity of Caloric Intake
Bees generally do not secrete wax unless they are processing a heavy influx of sugar.
A "nectar flow" triggers the biological glands required for comb building.
The Consequence of Scarcity
During a dearth, the colony shifts into conservation mode.
Introducing space that requires energy to build (foundation) conflicts with their biological imperative to conserve energy.
Consequently, the foundation is rejected or cannibalized rather than utilized.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Premature Expansion
A common mistake is adding a super or new frames simply because the hive population looks dense.
If this is done during a dry spell in the season, you will damage your equipment rather than relieve congestion.
Ignoring the "Artificial" Flow
Operators often forget that they can simulate a nectar flow.
If you must add foundation during a dearth, failing to provide heavy sugar syrup guarantees the foundation will be chewed.
Making the Right Choice for Your Goal
To ensure your foundation is drawn into healthy, usable comb, align your management with the environment.
- If your primary focus is expanding the hive during a dearth: You must feed the colony heavy sugar syrup to simulate a nectar flow and stimulate wax production.
- If your primary focus is preserving resources: Do not add new foundation until you observe a strong natural nectar flow begins.
Respect the bees' need for energy, and they will build the infrastructure you need.
Summary Table:
| Factor | Condition: Nectar Flow | Condition: Nectar Dearth |
|---|---|---|
| Bee Behavior | Rapid wax secretion & building | Gnawing & chewing foundation |
| Comb Quality | Uniform, high-quality cells | Irregular holes & defective combs |
| Resource Use | High caloric consumption | Energy conservation mode |
| Management | Add foundation freely | Feed syrup or wait for flow |
| Outcome | Hive expansion success | Equipment damage & wasted labor |
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