neil,
you have a good plan!
russkies can be somewhat ornery (more so than other breeds), mostly weather, nectar, pollen and queen problem and even pest/disease. they will let you know. just an adjustment. they seem to be more temperamental to environmental changes and problems within the hive. sometimes i have managed to get a queen that has produced a little more temperamental bees.........
that's okay, i wear the protective gear, as long as they are mite/disease free, producing honey, i don't mind. i have become accustomed to it.
with russians from the rhba, minimal mite treatments, if at all. some say they are not good honey producers.........i disagree.....have had many good years with them and last season (2016); 5 hives producing 700 + lbs honey........
with that said honey production is also dependent on one's environment. we had a good year this year.
they winter very well neil.
many things about the genetics i guess a trade off for not being so 'gentle' in the 'temperament' department.......
i don't mind anymore.