How do you make top bar hives?

Place a strip of bee foundation inside each of the top bar grooves. Using wood glue (or melted beeswax for a nontoxic option), fasten the foundation into the grooves. The bees will build their comb onto this foundation, which will hang down into the body of the hive.

What are the dimensions of a top bar hive?

We propose a standard top bar with a main body that is 19-1/2 inches long by 1-1/2 inches wide by 3/4 inches thick. This bar can be temporarily used in a Langstroth hive, and its size falls within the range of bar sizes currently used by most American top bar beekeepers.

How big should a top bar hive be?

The length is important. The box itself should be at least 3 feet long, but larger is preferred. Any less and our bees face the risk of filling the box before they have a chance to cap any honey.

How deep is a top bar hive?

The depth of the bar and the length of the bar can be whatever the beekeeper wants, but usually between 17″ and 20″. The depth of the top bar hive should be 12″ or less. If deeper, the weight of the comb filled with honey tends to cause it to fall off the bar into the bottom of the hive.

Can I build a top bar hive for free?

The free plans will enable you to build a working top bar hive, using simple tools and readily obtainable timber.

What types of hives are used in beekeeping in Kenya?

There are different types of hives used in beekeeping in Kenya but the most important for commercial purposes are two, the Kenya Top Bar Hive (KTBH) and the Langstroth hives.

What is a top bar beehive?

Top Bar hives are perfect for small-scale beekeeping or hobbyist who doesn’t want to lift more than 40lbs. Warre hives are the middle ground between Langstroth and Top Bar. Now, let’s begin with the first beehive plans: 1. The Colorado Top Bar Beehive If you are new to beekeeping, a top bar hive might be of interest to you.

Which is the best hive plan for a beginner?

38 Langstroth, Top Bar, and Warre Hive Plans. 1 1. The Colorado Top Bar Beehive. If you are new to beekeeping, a top bar hive might be of interest to you. They originated in Kenya where bees have a 2 2. The Barcelona Warre Beehive. 3 3. Top Bar Hive. 4 4. The Long Langstroth Hive. 5 5. The Wooden Skid Hive.