Hive frames can be prepared for comb construction using three primary methods: installing a full sheet of wax foundation, applying smaller starter strips to guide the colony, or leaving the frame completely empty for the bees to build from scratch.
While bees are capable of building comb in empty space, providing a physical guide—whether a full sheet or a simple strip—is often necessary to ensure they draw the comb straight and within the frame's boundaries.
Approaches to Frame Setup
Full Foundation
The most structured method involves outfitting the frame with a full sheet of wax foundation.
This provides a complete template for the bees. It dictates the cell size and ensures the comb is centered within the frame immediately.
Starter Strips
Instead of a full sheet, you can equip frames with smaller starter strips of wax.
This method offers a compromise. It gives the bees a clear starting point along the top bar to encourage straight building but allows them to construct the rest of the comb naturally.
Empty Frames
It is possible to leave frames completely empty.
In this scenario, bees build the entire comb from scratch. However, without any guide, there is a higher risk of bees building "cross-comb" that connects multiple frames together.
Implementing Guides for Natural Comb
If you opt for starter strips or foundationless frames, adding a specific "guide" to the top bar is critical for managing where the bees draw wax.
The Timber Fillet Method
One effective technique involves cutting a shallow lengthwise groove into the top bar.
You can then insert a 1/8 inch fillet of timber (or a popsicle stick) into this groove and secure it with hot wax.
To finish this guide, dip the bottom edge of the wood in wax. This creates an attractive starter strip that signals to the bees where to begin.
Alternative Guide Methods
Guides can also be created using other materials attached to the top bar.
A triangular guide glued to the bar provides a sharp edge for bees to follow. Alternatively, a piece of waxed twine can be attached to serve the same purpose.
Understanding the Trade-offs
The Plastic Frame Challenge
If you choose to use plastic frames rather than wood and wax, preparation is vital.
Bees display a distinct preference for natural materials. If given a choice between bare plastic and real beeswax, they will choose the beeswax 100% of the time.
To ensure bees accept plastic frames, you must brush them with melted beeswax. Without this coating, the colony may be reluctant to draw out the comb.
Making the Right Choice for Your Goal
Choosing a preparation method depends on your preference for natural behavior versus management efficiency.
- If your primary focus is consistent, straight comb: Utilize a full sheet of wax foundation to provide a complete template for the colony.
- If your primary focus is natural comb building: Use a starter strip, timber fillet, or waxed twine to guide the bees while allowing them to determine the comb structure.
- If your primary focus is using plastic equipment: You must coat the plastic foundation heavily in beeswax to trick the bees into accepting the artificial surface.
Properly preparing your frames ensures the colony directs its energy into building usable, accessible comb.
Summary Table:
| Preparation Method | Materials Used | Key Benefit | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Foundation | Wax sheets | Perfectly straight & centered comb | Efficiency & management |
| Starter Strips | Small wax strips | Encourages natural cell building | Balanced approach |
| Timber Fillet | 1/8 inch wood + wax | Strong physical guide for bees | Natural comb enthusiasts |
| Plastic Frames | Plastic + wax coating | Durability and longevity | High-volume operations |
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