Last time, I talked a bit about adding more hives as the nectar flow season approaches, since the colonies increase in number, and conversely,  reducing the number of hives as autumn approaches. This is in preparation for the coming cold. The goal is to make the space inside the hives  as small as possible to help retain warmth within the colony. However, as mentioned before, this time of year is characterized by significant  fluctuations in temperature. Just when it seems like winter is really settling in, the temperature suddenly rises to summer-like levels, making  this task far from straightforward. Everything must be handled by carefully observing the strength of each individual colony.

The hives removed from the apiary are checked by their identification numbers and then transported to the storage facility.  Using a hive tool, an essential tool for beekeepers, the wax and propolis attached to each hive are scraped off. The wax collecting on  the sheet below is gathered, heated, and stored as beeswax. After removing a certain amount of residue, the hives are scorched with  a gas burner until scorched, disinfecting and sterilizing them. The temperature of the large burner exceeds 2000°C, and its flame  reaches up to one meter, which easily eradicates pests like wax moths and mites. At the same time, it helps maintain the  cleanliness of the hives by protecting them from diseases caused by viruses and fungi.

This process is also applied to new hives.  We have confirmed that when the surface of a hive box is scorched, pests such as mites and wax moths tend to avoid it, likely due to the  carbon residue, which appears to have a repellent effect. Additionally, from experience, we know that carbonized hives do not provide  a suitable environment for the growth of viruses and fungi, and the risk of mold development due to humidity during the upcoming rainy season is significantly reduced. Normally, beekeepers here don’t manage their hives this thoroughly, and I’ve never heard of it being done. However, to my surprise,  when I visited a beekeeping supply store recently, I saw that they’ve started selling hives that have already been scorched in an electric kiln— something that didn’t exist in the past.

According to the store clerk, these hives supposedly reduce the occurrence of pests and diseases. I even wondered if they had copied  my method. However, simply scorching the hive slightly in an electric kiln leaves me skeptical about its effectiveness. The bees in my  freshly scorched hives turn completely black, almost like a different species, but I’ve never had any issues with diseases or pests from  these bees. Eventually, the black bees return to their normal color, but since carbon is used in purification systems like activated charcoal,  I’ve come to believe that it benefits the bees’ living environment. Of course, the dark color of my Manuka honey has nothing to do with this carbon process. (Haha)