if you plan on Bees this spring, right now i would start treating the ground beneath where you are going to put your hives. The way I do this to buy the cheapest liquid laundry detergent at the family dollar. Mix one measurement of soap
(whatever that lid holds) to one gallon of water. I usually mix up 4 or 5 gallons at a time. drench the ground all around the hive site 18-24 inches out. Repeat this every other week when its dry and once a week if its rainy.
What this does is stop the brood cycle of the Small Hive Beetles (BAD NEWS) and will give you a head start combating them!! The soap goes into the ground and will not effect the grass or bees!
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I was not aware of these small hive beetles. We will have to get a spot picked. What would be considered a good spot? We have open areas, wooded areas and a pond.
Great question!
First off, ask around and see if SHB are a problem in your area. Most likely they are. They like dark, damp, mulchy spots.
Put hives in the sun or a spot that gets partial sun.
Put their front door in a spot where their flight paths don't intersect with usual human walking paths.
If your in a colder climate, face the front door (bee entrance) south so they can benefit from the suns warmth on those cold days.
That's great info. From what I see online they are in our area. I think I may know of a good spot for them. I will keep you updated!