How often should old combs be rotated out of the hive?

Old combs should typically be rotated out of the hive every 3-5 years to maintain the health and productivity of the bee colony. Over time, comb can accumulate chemicals, pathogens, and wax moth larvae, which can adversely affect the bees. Fresh comb not only reduces these risks but also encourages better hive performance as bees prefer to work with clean, new wax for brood rearing and honey production. Additionally, older combs can darken and become less attractive to bees, potentially impacting their overall well-being.

Regularly rotating combs within this timeframe helps ensure that the bees are working with a healthy environment. While there are other time frames suggested for the rotation of combs, such as yearly or every decade, these are generally less effective in promoting the best conditions for a thriving colony. The 3-5 year rule balances the necessity of maintaining fresh, healthy comb with the practicalities of beekeeping management.