Dealing with Bee Space (013)

How much space do bees need inside a beehive? Well, it’s between 3/16” and 5/16”, so you can figure just about a quarter inch should do.  But what happens when bees don’t have bee space in a beehive? Propolis is what happens: Tighter than a drum if it’s too small and full of burr and brace comb if it’s too big.

Make it just right for the bees and they’ll make it right for you!

Are there differences between equipment manufacturers? (Yes) Where is the bee space? Above the frames or below the frames when they sit in the box? It’s different for different manufacturers. So, look and even measure before you buy. Brand X may not work with Brand Y, depending on just where they provide the bee space between boxes. This applies to hive bodies, honey supers and even inner covers!

Ever used a hammer to get frames out? No? Well, you’ve been lucky. Add one to your tool box before you head out to the beeyard. It just might be the only way to save a frame from certain destruction.

Bee Space, can’t live without it, and even if you have it, sometimes it still doesn’t work.

Watch Jim Tew explain bee space in this Honey Bee Obscura YouTube video: https://youtu.be/uloW43GykHg

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This episode of Honey Bee Obscura is supported by the three generations of beekeepers at Leibengood Family Apiaries, providing Georgia certified, southern raised bee packages and queens to central Ohio each Spring!

Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of Beekeeping Today Podcast.

Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus

Honey Bee Obscura is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

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