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Bron

New Bee
Joined
Feb 5, 2022
Messages
20
Reaction score
14
Location
North Wales
Hive Type
None
Hi, I am from North Wales and hoping to start having bees one day. My grandfather kept bees and it's a hobby I have always wanted to explore. Recently joined my local BKA and bought some books. I know I have got a lot of learning to do! This forum looks a great place for gathering info. I am very happy to find you :D
 
Welcome to the forum. Enjoy.
 
I have just noticed how may hives you have all got. Is it usual to have so many? I was thinking about having 1 or 2 hives lol
 
I have just noticed how may hives you have all got. Is it usual to have so many? I was thinking about having 1 or 2 hives lol
That’s the danger with bees. You get More Bees disease
Two is a good number. Lots of people have just the two.
 
I have just noticed how may hives you have all got. Is it usual to have so many? I was thinking about having 1 or 2 hives lol

We always recommend two colonies (or more). Every colony behaves slightly/very differently so two hives = double the learning experience. Also, if you're unlucky to loose a colony then you've not lost the hobby for some weeks or months. Sometimes a weak colony benefits from a donation of brood from the stronger colony. QED!
 
thanks for your replies. So I will plan my layout to start with two hives. I hope my area will be big enough 🤞
 
From what I have been reading, each hive needs an area of 4m x 4m. Is this the case in practice?
 
From what I have been reading, each hive needs an area of 4m x 4m. Is this the case in practice?
no, you can space them a few inches apart if you really want to, as long as you have enough room to move around them for manipulations and inspection
 
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Once you have bees you find them fascinating. So much to learn but so much fun too.
 
I make stands that can hold three hives a few inches apart but only have a pair on each stand, leaving the middle slot free to put the upturned roof and supers on when inspecting

stand1.jpgstand3.jpgty uchaf 1.jpg
 
From what I have been reading, each hive needs an area of 4m x 4m. Is this the case in practice?
No ... I have seven (and can manage 8 or 9) colonies in an area that is about 6m x 4m. They are in my garden as well. Starting with two is ideal but be prepared for the inevitable increase as time goes on - bees will swarm and either you accept the new colony that they make or you pre-empt the swarming and you make up -- guess what ? Another colony ... Most beekeepers start with one or two colonies but - it's hard to resist the temptation of more bees - the bees usually come free if you let them - you just have to spend money on the kit to keep them in. So, start with two but be prepared for four !
 

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