How to split a beehive: when and how to divide a colony
Splitting a beehive is a common practice among beekeepers to increase the number of hives and prevent overcrowding. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to split a beehive:
Timing: The best time to split a beehive is in the spring, when the colony is starting to grow and the bees are starting to build up their numbers.
Identify a strong colony: Choose a strong colony that has a healthy queen and enough bees to support a new hive.
Prepare a new hive: Set up a new hive with frames and foundation, and place it in a new location away from the original hive.
Divide the colony: Remove several frames with brood, pollen, and honey from the original hive and transfer them to the new hive. Be sure to include frames with eggs, larvae, and capped brood to ensure the new colony has enough bees to support growth.
Add a new queen: Introduce a new queen to the new hive or let the bees raise their own queen from the brood.
Feed the new colony: Provide the new colony with sugar syrup to help them establish their new hive and build up their numbers.
Check the original colony: After splitting the hive, check the original hive to ensure they have enough resources and a healthy queen to continue to thrive.
It is important to note that splitting a beehive can be stressful for the bees, so it is essential to provide them with enough resources, including food and a healthy queen, to ensure their survival. It is also important to monitor the new hive closely to ensure the colony is growing and thriving in their new location.
