Michael_Bush First off Thank you for your comments. I know this topic is old, but it is new to me as a Newbie.
I have a screened bottom board myself. I installed a package in April. It’s now August with daytime temps average of 90F. I have removed the bottom strip from bottom board and placed it directly under the hive allowing plenty of air movement. I’ve also removed any entrance reducers to help with air flow.
For the top inner cover which has an oval cut into it, I have a double jar feeder directly over it and have been feeding them continuously since installing them. It was my understanding that they would let me know when to stop feeding them when they stopped eating the 1:1 sugar syrup. They have been eating it like crazy. The hive is flourishing as it has grown in size. They were slow to build out the foundation I supplied them with. Finally on my last inspection the hive was full of bees and they were building out the last two frames with comb. So I added another brood box. I also got stung on my finger during that inspection. I had been able to do all my inspections without smoke or any protective gear.
I think they may not have any food sources in this area of NW Arkansas. I have noticed there is not very many flowers in this area. That may be the reason I’m having to feed them with sugar syrup.
The reason for posting this in this topic heading, is What temperature should I reinsert the bottom cor board to close up the hive and what temperature should I reduce the entrance to the hive. I have two different size entrance reducers (one stick that can be turned). One size is 2-3 inches, the other is about 1/2 inch in size. What are your suggestions?
Thanks for considering,