After extracting honey, honey supers can be managed in several ways to ensure they remain useful and clean for future use. If there is still a honey flow, supers can be placed directly back on the hive for bees to clean and reuse. Alternatively, if no immediate reuse is needed, supers can be stacked above the inner cover, where bees will clean the remaining honey but are less likely to reuse the comb. Wax cappings can be processed into beesw wax bricks for reuse or sold. It's also important to handle supers carefully to avoid damage and to extract honey at a distance from the hive to prevent agitating the bees.
Key Points Explained:
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Reusing Supers on the Hive:
- If there is an ongoing honey flow, supers can be placed directly back on the hive. The bees will clean the remaining honey and may reuse the comb for future honey storage.
- This method is efficient as it allows for immediate reuse and minimizes the need for additional storage.
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Cleaning Supers Above the Inner Cover:
- When there is no immediate need for the supers, they can be stacked above the inner cover. Bees will clean the honey from the combs, but they are less likely to reuse them.
- This method is useful for storage and ensures that the supers are ready for future use without the risk of contamination.
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Processing Wax Cappings:
- After extraction, wax cappings can be washed to remove honey, melted, and strained through cheesecloth to form beeswax bricks.
- These bricks can be rendered into new foundation by supply companies, offering a cost-effective way to reuse wax.
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Handling and Extraction Precautions:
- Honey extraction should be done at a distance from the hive to avoid attracting bees, which may become agitated by the smell of honey and comb.
- Care should be taken when handling heavy or flimsily attached combs to prevent damage, ensuring that the supers remain intact for future use.
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Storage and Maintenance:
- Proper storage of supers after extraction is crucial to prevent damage and contamination. Keeping them in a clean, dry place will ensure they remain in good condition for the next season.
- Regular maintenance and inspection of supers can help identify any issues early, ensuring they are ready for use when needed.
Summary Table:
| Management Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Reuse on the Hive | Place supers back on the hive during a honey flow for bees to clean and reuse. |
| Clean Above Inner Cover | Stack supers above the inner cover for cleaning without immediate reuse. |
| Process Wax Cappings | Melt and strain wax cappings to create reusable beeswax bricks. |
| Handling Precautions | Extract honey away from the hive to avoid agitating bees and prevent damage. |
| Storage and Maintenance | Store supers in a clean, dry place and inspect regularly for future use. |
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