Supers in a standard beehive come in three primary sizes: deep, medium (often referred to as 'Illinois'), and shallow. These sizes are designed to meet varying needs in honey production and brood-rearing, with the deep being the largest and the shallow the smallest. The choice of super size depends on factors like hive strength, honey flow, and beekeeper preference, offering flexibility in hive management.
Key Points Explained:
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Three Standard Sizes of Supers
- Deep Super: The largest option, typically measuring 9 5/8 inches in height. It is often used for brood chambers but can also hold more honey due to its size.
- Medium Super (Illinois): Mid-sized, usually 6 5/8 inches tall. A popular choice for honey production as it balances weight (easier to handle) and storage capacity.
- Shallow Super: The smallest, around 5 3/4 inches tall. Ideal for honey extraction when lighter frames are preferred, such as in comb honey production.
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Functional Differences
- Brood vs. Honey: While deep supers are commonly used for brood-rearing, all sizes can technically hold honey. Medium and shallow supers are favored for honey storage to reduce weight during harvest.
- Interchangeability: Supers and hive bodies (brood boxes) are structurally similar—wooden boxes with frames—but their placement and purpose differ. Supers are stacked above the brood chamber for honey storage.
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Practical Considerations for Beekeepers
- Weight Management: A deep super full of honey can weigh over 80 lbs, making medium or shallow supers preferable for easier handling.
- Hive Strength: Stronger hives may benefit from deep supers for maximum honey yield, while weaker colonies might perform better with smaller supers.
- Standardization: Using one size (e.g., medium) across all supers simplifies equipment compatibility and frame interchangeability.
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Frame Compatibility
- All super sizes use the same frame length (19 inches for Langstroth hives), but their depth varies. This ensures frames fit uniformly within the hive’s modular design.
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Regional and Beekeeper Preferences
- Some regions or beekeepers standardize on medium supers for uniformity, while others mix sizes based on seasonal needs (e.g., shallow for spring honey flows).
By understanding these sizes and their applications, beekeepers can optimize hive productivity and operational efficiency. The choice ultimately hinges on balancing honey yield, physical strain, and colony health.
Summary Table:
| Super Size | Height | Primary Use | Weight Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deep | 9 5/8 inches | Brood chambers, high-capacity honey | Heavy (~80 lbs when full) |
| Medium (Illinois) | 6 5/8 inches | Balanced honey production | Easier to handle (~50-60 lbs) |
| Shallow | 5 3/4 inches | Lightweight honey extraction (e.g., comb) | Lightest (~30-40 lbs) |
Need help selecting the perfect super size for your apiary? Contact HONESTBEE for expert advice tailored to your hive’s strength and honey flow!
