Before you start creating an apiary, you need to choose the right housing for insects. Probably everyone knows the name of the house for bees. Of course, this is a hive. It can be noted that small pets are very unpretentious and will be able to take root in any box.
Types of hives
Currently used bee houses are divided into:
- horizontal, they are also called sunbeds;
- vertical, or risers;
- combined.
In the first case, the dwelling consists of one building. Expansion is carried out in both directions. From 16 to 24 frames are installed in such a house, their number is easy to change, but they are weighty and bulky.
When using the second type, the size of the hive is increased by attaching superstructures from above. This form is more convenient and lightweight than the previous one.
Combined hives combine the best qualities of sunbeds and risers. They have several sections, blocked by a diaphragm. This makes it possible to change their volume both up and to the sides.
Where to get a house?
Experienced professionals advise newcomers to purchase used hives. At the same time, it is necessary to ensure that their internal dimensions are standard. After all, the framework for them produce specific parameters. When the housing is larger than established, insects will build a honeycomb where this is not provided, and it will be difficult to get honey. Also, do not take rotten and poorly insulated hives. In general, it’s better to go for such a purchase with a knowledgeable person. Otherwise, it is worth buying new hives.
In addition, you can try to make them yourself. Materials such as wood planks, plywood and polystyrene are used for this. The main task of the master, who decided to make a bee house, is to withstand the exact internal dimensions.
The most popular types of designs
What is the name of the bee house used most often? This is the hive of Dadan Blatt. It is made from spruce boards and is quite easy to use. This house accommodates 12 frames. With the growth of the bee family, their number can be increased. If the need arises, then shops with half-frames are placed on top of the main building. Bees winter in the nesting department. When spring comes, when the insect family grows, shops or another building are added.
In addition, Rueh's hive is very popular. It includes 6 buildings, each of which contains 10 frames. They build up gradually when the insect becomes crowded. When using such a hive, bees multiply faster and give more honey.
However, this home has one minus. Due to the frequent rearrangement of the buildings, it becomes possible to overcool the house, so it is better to start it in areas with a mild climate.
Having a little understanding of this issue, we can say that there is no ideal home for bees. Which option to choose should be decided by the beekeeper, taking into account his needs and capabilities.