Beemaster's International Beekeeping Forum
BEEKEEPING LEARNING CENTER => GENERAL BEEKEEPING - MAIN POSTING FORUM. => Topic started by: BeeV on May 08, 2011, 09:02:44 am
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As a long time wood turner new to bee keeping, I thought I would try using the long shavings I make (which I have tons of) as smoker fuel. Problem is, some woods such as Walnut, are mildly toxic and shouldn't be used for things like pet bedding. I wondered if this would be a problem for the bees when burned for smoke?
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I have used the bark off of cedar trees for years (actually cedar fence post that have dried out) with no noticeable effects. I am like you though some of the woods contain large amounts of oils that might harm bees, not sure which ones though.
I have some family that lives in La Follette, 2 sister inlaws that live a little ways behind Big "O" market and a nephew that lives in Jacksboro.
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The smoke from walnut has been shown to have a beneficial effect on varroa populations. Grapefruit leaves and mesquite as well.
I wouldn't use anything from the teak family (including ipe) but you're most likely not turning that anyway.
Scott
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as long as its aged (dried) it shouldnt be a big deal. I read somewhere
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Hardwood- Do you mean that the smoke is beneficial for the mites or beneficial for controlling the mites?
G3farms - My wife is originally from Lafollette and knows absolutely everyone. She probably knows em. ;)
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On controlling the mites (I should have been more clear). I'm not sure where to find a link but the study was done by UF.
Scott