# of starting hives?

[drex]

Will have only enough equipment for one colony with brood + 2 supers polly hives as start-up. Would not want to go beyond two colonies.
Can I get away with one for the 1st year assuming all ok?

Depends on when you start them off and how they come ( nucleus colony, swarm, package etc ) . A nucleus of even less than prolific bees can easily fill a brood box by Summer's end. With just two supers you might need to extract and bung straight back on.
" Assuming all ok" is fine, but if you end up in trouble, having the resources in a second colony can be the only way to get out of trouble, unless you have good contacts ( thinking of hopelessly queen less situation mainly)
Even after ten + years I still get things wrong. My first year had many problems.
You say you want a maximum of two colonies. If you can afford it, I suggest you at least buy your second set of boxes now. Spare kit is never spare for very long.
I am being realistic and not negative. I hope you enjoy this wonderful hobby.

 

[Nannysbees]

8 colonies by August, guaranteed
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