From biojdsx@panther.Gsu.EDU Thu Nov 21 11:10:27 1996
Date: Wed, 20 Nov 1996 10:51:26 -0500 (EST)
From: James D Satterfield
To: "Malcolm (Tom) Sanford, Florida Extension Apiculturist"
Subject: Re: November issue of APIS--Web site update
Tom, this is a wonderful issue of Apis...you've summarized many aspects of
tbh's very well. Wyatt Mangum is really wonderful, and his presentation
on the history of beekeeping, which includes displays of items from his
beekeeping museum, is just as good.
With respect to using Apistan in tbh's, it's no problem at all. I just
use my thin hive tool, which I've made from a 12" shelf bracket, to insert
between the top bars in an area where the brood should be...then insert
the strip. Since I make a centered, 3/8x3/4 inch notch to one side on
each of my bars, I only have to make a slight enlargement to insert the
strip. Easy...no supers to lift off, etc. Doesn't disturb the colony in
inserting or removing the strip.
TBH's may not be of interest to individuals whose commercial aim
is to produce tons of honey, practice migratory beekeeping, or who can't
deal with using a hive that was designed for and is used in "developing
countries". But for the hobby or sideline beekeeper, I think it's a
viable option...and it's fun.
Well, I'm off to winterize my hives. I'll put in another quart of syrup
if a hive looks like it may need it. I just set a quart jar on two pieces
of wood *inside* the hive. I'll also reduce the volume inside the hive
with wood "follower boards" attached to tb's or easier, just drape a piece
of newspaper down to block off some volume. Bees can tear the paper out
when they need more room. I'll leave a couple notches open for
ventilation in the cluster area, cover the other notches with a couple
strips of 1/4 inch masonite, then put a sheet of blue sheathing insulation
foam on top of that, then a brick on top after which I put on my tin cover
held down with bricks usually, or tied on. Looks as if I have a good day
to do it. Best get busy.
Thank you for your work with Apis.
Cordially yours,
Jim
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| James D. Satterfield | E-Mail: jsatt@gsu.edu |
| --------------------------------
| 258 Ridge Pine Drive Canton is about 40 mi/64 km |
| Canton, GA 30114, USA north of Atlanta, Georgia USA |
| Telephone (770) 479-4784 |
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