Thursday, August 30, 2007

Top Bar Hive Beginnings

Yesterday, my partner and I went to the local Menard's to begin pricing materials for the construction of a 48'' top bar hive. We'll be using Phil Chandler's basic design (I love the addition of following boards), along with adaptations my partner has added. We really don't know when we'll start this project though as more important family concerns will just naturally take precedence. I will include full photos of the construction process.

2 comments:

Gerry Gomez Pearlberg said...

Hi there,
Before you build, may I suggest you take a look at recent discussions on the organic beek list re. hive volume, if you haven't already seen all that? Justt be sure you're making your TBH large enough to give your bees: (1) room to grow in pop. size; (2) room to build big brood nest + enough honeycombs for winter and (perhaps) for you to harvest; (3) room for them to feel comfy enough that they won't swarm on you TWICE in one year like mine did; (4) room for them to fill out, while leaving you room for your manipulations. I have had real problems with the volume issue and just want to give you a head's up. Contact me on email if you have questions. :)

Abelisto said...

Thanks for the suggestions. I've been thinking about that. Do you think two 48'' long hives with movable follower boards will solve this problem?

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