Do afterswarms come out only when the old hive remains on the old stand?
Afterswarms, those rebellious little offshoots of the original swarm! While it's true that afterswarms are more likely to occur when the old hive remains in its original location, they can still happen even if you move the old hive to a new stand. Bees can be quite unpredictable, you see. So, keep an eye out for those sneaky afterswarms wherever they may roam! Have you encountered any renegade afterswarms in your apiary?
Is there any way to keep the moisture from the bees, and from condensing in the hives? If so, how?
Ah, the eternal struggle against condensation! Moisture can indeed be a problem in the hive, especially during colder months. To keep it at bay, ensure proper ventilation by using screened bottom boards, utilizing top entrances, or adding ventilation boxes. Additionally, you can insulate the outer cover to prevent sudden temperature changes. Oh, and don't forget to regularly check for any leaks or cracks in the hive.
Well, that depends on a few factors, like the size of your apiary, the available forage in the area, and how much time and effort you're willing to put into managing multiple colonies. Generally speaking, it's a good idea to start with a manageable number, say 2-3 colonies, and see how well you can handle them. Remember, happy bees make for a happy beekeeper! So, how much space and time can you dedicate to your buzzing buddies?
How many colonies of bees can I keep in one apiary?