Where should I site my hive?
Choose a semi-sheltered position with the entrance facing between north and east: somewhere that catches morning sun but is protected from hot midday and afternoon sun. An eave or the edge of a deciduous tree can provide useful protection. Keep the entrance flight path clear.
Avoid heat sinks such as large concrete areas, western brick walls and large landscaping rocks. In very hot regions, a cooler protected site is better.
Can I move my hive once it is in place?
For short moves, move the hive and stand about half a metre a day. For larger moves, the site advises sealing the hive at night and using a temporary holding site beyond the bees’ flight range for about six weeks before returning it to its new position.
How often can I split my hive?
Hives can generally be split every 18 to 24 months. Only strong hives with good bee numbers are suitable; late spring to early summer is a useful time to assess a hive, taking seasonal conditions and floral resources into account.
There are no bees coming out—what’s wrong?
Bees can be much slower in cold, windy or wet weather. On days below 17°C they may not emerge at all. Ants at the entrance can indicate a problem, although ants often occupy gaps around a hive without entering it.