Over the years, we have tried several types of cell builders, mating nucleis and management schemes. We strive to improve efficiency without sacrificing quality. Every year we make changes on one or more aspects of our queen rearing program.
As of this past season 2009, we used the Cloake Board Method to raise cells, and found it very faithful in producing consistently large cells. We introduce only 30 grafted larvaes at a time, once a week, per cell builder.
We make liberal use of sugar syrup and pollen substitute patties containing some irradiated pollen. The bees love it and consume it eagerly. We believe the queens are well raised and develop fully to reach their maximum potential.
Secondly, this summer 2009, we also fed the pollen substitute to our mating nucs, all summer long. This reduces the stress associated with queen collection. The bees can better care for the virgins until they are ready to be sold as mated queens.
Thirdly, we decided to wait at least 18 days, up to 21 days before collecting the new mated queens. This means they stay an extra 4-7 days more than the usual 14 days after introduction. Research conducted in Australia shows that the pheromone level increases after 17 days, and improves the queen’s chance to be accepted after collection.
All in all, we hope and believe these procedures contribute to produce the best queens possible; and this should be reflected in better acceptance, better productivity, and better demonstration of genetic they are supposed to have as Russian stock.
Page updated December 8, 2009