Before grafting, the key steps involve preparing the starter hive by removing brood combs, shaking bees back into the hive, and returning the combs to the super of a two-storey hive. This ensures the hive is ready to accept grafted larvae without disruption. Proper handling and timing are critical to maximize grafting success, as the starter hive must be in an optimal state to care for the new larvae.
Key Points Explained:
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Remove Brood Combs from the Starter Hive
- This step clears space in the hive, reducing congestion and ensuring the bees can focus on the newly grafted larvae.
- Brood combs contain developing bees, and their removal prevents competition for resources between existing brood and grafted cells.
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Shake Adhering Bees Back into the Starter Hive
- Bees clinging to the removed combs should be gently shaken back into the hive to maintain the colony's workforce.
- This ensures the hive retains enough nurse bees to care for the grafted larvae, improving acceptance rates.
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Return Brood Combs to the Super of a Two-Storey Hive
- The removed brood combs should be placed in the upper section (super) of a two-storey hive to keep them accessible but separate from the grafting area.
- This maintains colony strength while keeping the lower section free for grafting operations.
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Ensure Proper Timing and Handling
- Grafting should be done when the hive is strong and has ample nurse bees to tend to new larvae.
- Quick, careful handling minimizes stress on bees and increases the likelihood of successful grafting.
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Prepare the Cell-Building Unit
- After these steps, the hive is ready to receive grafted larvae in cell bars, which are then placed in a cell-building unit.
- The starter hive’s environment must be warm, humid, and well-stocked with food to support larval development.
By following these steps, beekeepers create an ideal environment for grafting, ensuring the highest chances of raising healthy, viable queen cells.
Summary Table:
| Step | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Remove brood combs | Clears space, reduces congestion, and prevents resource competition. |
| Shake bees back into the hive | Maintains nurse bee workforce for larval care. |
| Return combs to the super | Keeps colony strong while freeing the lower section for grafting. |
| Ensure proper timing/handling | Minimizes stress and maximizes grafting success. |
| Prepare cell-building unit | Creates a warm, humid, and well-fed environment for larval development. |
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