What is the purpose of 'grafting' in queen rearing?

Grafting in queen rearing is a specialized technique used to propagate new queen bees from selected genetics. The primary purpose is to produce queens that exhibit desired traits such as improved productivity, disease resistance, or gentleness. This technique allows beekeepers to control the genetics of their bee population and enhance specific characteristics that contribute to overall colony performance and health.

During the grafting process, larvae that are young enough to be transformed into queens are transferred into specially prepared queen cells. By selecting healthy larvae from high-quality, genetically superior colonies, beekeepers can effectively raise a new generation of queens that carry these desired traits.

This method is essential for maintaining and improving bee stock quality, providing a reliable way to generate new queens that are aligned with breeding goals. The focus is primarily on enhancing the genetic makeup of bee populations, which is crucial for successful beekeeping and honey production as it can lead to stronger and more resilient colonies.