Swapping Old Hive Boxes with new Propola Bee Boxes, replacing old comb with new foundation.
April 16th Old Hive Equipment isn't tight. Installing new Propola Boxes and transferring most of the frames.
Propola boxes have interior surfaces that promote the development of the propolis envelope that is proven to aid in honey bee health.
Removed some of my oldest BetterComb, and installed new heavy waxed foundation in wooden frames.
Plenty of honey left over from winter, removing some of the full capped honey frames to make room and reduce the swarming instinct.
Look into Nature's Image Farm for information regarding the wood treament used to extend hive box life: EnduraHive https://www.naturesimagefarm.com/page...
There is no affiliation, I am not compensated.
The smoker fuel is switch grass pellets. They last a very long time, and offer heavy smoke that isn't too hot. The Northwest Pennsylvania Beekeepers Association is selling Switch Grass Smoker Pellets as a fundraiser. They are a Non-Profit, the proceeds are utilized to provide beekeeping education and honey bee awareness:
https://nwpabeekeepers.org/pay-member...
THIS is now my favorite choice in smoker fuel.
The battery powered computer blaster that I use to blow bees off the capped honey frames can be found here. This is an affiliate link:
https://amzn.to/4b0KRGJ When you want a touchless way to remove bees.
Hive Alive Fondant performed very well on my hives this winter, learn more about it here: https://www.fredsfinefowl.com/hiveali...
IGNITING YOUR SMOKER FUEL: I use the Bernzomatic Igniter, you can do a google search, or follow this affiliate link: https://amzn.to/4aFTjv7
I fill the smoker basked with pellets up to 1" from the top.
I use the propane igniter and send the flame down the inside wall of the smoker to the lower vent from the top.
I continue with that flame until I see smoke emitting out of the lower vent.
Close the top and watch the smoke roll out for at least a minute.
If it doesn't continue for a minute, re-ignite as described above.
Cap the smoker at the end of use with a cork or snuffer-style cap. You'll save fuel for your next inspection.
Smokers with removable burner baskets work best. You can also pull the basket out of the smoker and light from beneath and insert the basket back into the smoker housing.