Deep super frames serve as the internal skeleton of the beehive's brood chamber. These components are rectangular structures, typically made of wood or plastic, that hang inside the deep super boxes to hold the foundation—a sheet of wax or plastic that acts as a template for bees to build their honeycomb.
Deep super frames provide the removable structure necessary for hive management, while the foundation within them ensures bees build straight, orderly comb essential for raising brood and storing food.
The Anatomy of the Hive Interior
To understand how a beehive functions, you must distinguish between the structural frame and the internal guide known as foundation.
Deep Super Frames
These frames are specifically sized to fit inside "deep supers," the large boxes that usually make up the bottom of the hive.
They are typically constructed from wood or plastic.
In a standard setup utilizing two deep supers, you will need a total of 20 deep super frames (10 per box).
The Role of Foundation
Foundation is the sheet housed within the frame.
It mimics the hexagonal pattern of honeycomb.
The bees use this pattern as a guide to draw out their own wax comb.
Without this guide, bees often build irregular "burr comb" that connects frames together, making hive inspections difficult or impossible.
Understanding Material Trade-offs
Choosing the right materials for your frames and foundation involves balancing the bees' natural preferences against durability and ease of management.
Wax Foundation
Foundation made from wax or wired wax is the traditional choice.
Bees generally prefer building on wax because it is a natural material that integrates seamlessly with their own secretions.
However, wax is fragile and can sag or break during handling or honey extraction.
Plastic Foundation
Many modern beekeepers opt for plastic foundation due to its ruggedness.
It offers superior durability and versatility compared to wax.
Crucially, plastic is resistant to damage from pests like wax moths, which can easily destroy wax foundation.
While durable, it sometimes requires a coating of beeswax to encourage the bees to accept it and begin building.
Making the Right Choice for Your Goal
Selecting the correct frames and foundation depends on whether you prioritize natural geometry or equipment longevity.
- If your primary focus is bee acceptance: Choose wired wax foundation, as bees are naturally drawn to it and will build comb on it more quickly.
- If your primary focus is durability: Select plastic foundation, as it withstands rough handling, extraction, and pest damage far better than wax.
The right foundation ensures your bees build a stable, organized colony structure that lasts for years.
Summary Table:
| Feature | Deep Super Frames | Wax Foundation | Plastic Foundation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Role | Internal hive skeleton | Template for comb building | Template for comb building |
| Material | Wood or Durable Plastic | Natural/Wired Beeswax | Food-grade Plastic |
| Key Advantage | Enables easy inspection | High bee acceptance | Durable & pest-resistant |
| Best For | Standard brood chambers | Natural beekeeping | Commercial/High-use apiaries |
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