Re varroa, I’ve read of some interesting techniques that work for some people (and, of course, not for others). Culling the drone brood. Smaller cell size. Selecting strains that exhibit hygienic behavior.
I’m in PA, there are beekeepers everywhere. I’ve got plenty of space, but the winters here discourage me. This past winter was rather mild but some of them are brutal. You have to be very vigilant and even then there are setbacks.
Best book I’d recommend for anyone considering this hobby:
The Beekeeper’s Bible.
Incidentally, varroa take their name from Varro, a wise Roman scholar who has the distinction of having described, in ancient times, the existence of microbes:
“there are bred certain minute creatures which cannot be seen by the eyes, but which float in the air and enter the body through the mouth and nose and cause serious diseases.”
Thank you to everyone who added to this thread. I appreciate your input.
As I strive to have a successful hive this year, I will keep everyone updated.
I did manage to get come comb honey yesterday and added it to my coffee this morning.