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BUCKS COUNTY BEEKEEPERS ASSOCIATION

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Frames stuck together

  • June 25, 2023 9:18 PM
    Message # 13219775
    Anonymous

    Hi,

    New beginner here. Today when I was trying to get to my bottom box, two of the frames in that box were stuck to the box above it. When I lifted the that top box I pulled out those two frames along with the full top box. Since I was by myself, I couldn't figure out how to separate the frames from the top box so I tried to fit it back together as best I could. I'm pretty sure that I created a bit of a mess. My question: what to do to fix this situation? Thanks!


  • June 26, 2023 8:56 PM
    Reply # 13220307 on 13219775
    Kurt (Administrator)

    Darla,

    Ben Franklin was noted saying, "A stitch in time, same nine".  This is why we need to get into those boxes more frequently in the spring.   Unfortunately,  you will need to use you hive tool to "unstitch" all of that beautiful fresh comb the bees have build.  It stinks and its a waste of spring resources but you have to get in and cut that burr comb the minute you start to see them build it.   As far as the co-joined frame of comb, you just need to cut into it, separate the frames and cut off all the comb that is NOT perfect and let the bees start again to fix it up.   Sorry to be the bearer of bad news. 

    Save the comb and leave it out for the bees - they will eat any nectar and once its cleaned  - melt it down and use it to coat new foundation in the future.  

    As for the propolis, try to scratch it off as as you can too, it is easy when it's warm.   It turns hard like cement when it colder - you will break the wood frames in the fall if they are really loaded!

    /kurt

  • June 27, 2023 7:37 AM
    Reply # 13220447 on 13219775
    Anonymous

    Many thanks for your reply, I had been into the hive 2 days earlier and removed burr comb but I'll be more vigilant about it.

    Could you address the mechanics of a lone beekeeper, who has lifted a full box of frames, and is now faced with 2 frames from the lower box attached to the bottom of the lifted box? What should you do?

    Thanks again, Darla

  • June 27, 2023 8:52 AM
    Reply # 13220485 on 13219775
    Kurt (Administrator)

    Just break them off / cut them off as you tilt the upper box forward.    And, I agree it would be easier to have someone help you but you do need to get them separated.  Don't worry you will stir up the bees too...

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