For optimal results with new foundation, you must fill the box to its intended capacity—using all 10 frames in a standard 10-frame box. This density is critical during the first year to force the bees to build straight, uniform comb within the wooden frames.
The most critical factor in drawing new foundation is frame density. You must keep frames tightly packed initially to prevent cross-comb; only after the comb is fully drawn should you consider increasing the spacing.
The Strategy for the First Year
Establishing the Pattern
When introducing new wood and wax frames, the bees require strict boundaries to guide their construction.
By using the full complement of 10 frames, you limit the lateral space available between sheets of foundation. This forces the bees to draw the comb straight out from the wax sheet, resulting in a clean and uniform structure.
Preventing Irregularities
If you allow too much space between undrawn frames, bees will often ignore the foundation's guidance.
They may build "burr comb" or connect adjacent frames with "cross-comb," making future inspections difficult and messy. Keeping the frames tight ensures they respect the "bee space" and build within the frame's perimeter.
Managing Frames in Subsequent Years
Reducing Frame Count
Once the foundation is fully drawn out into comb, the structural rules change.
In subsequent years, you can reduce the density to 8 frames per 10-frame box. Because the "walls" of the comb are already established, the bees will not build cross-comb in the wider gaps.
Adapting to Honey Flow
Instead of building new structural comb, the bees will lengthen the existing cells to fill the extra space.
This technique, often used by honey producers, allows the bees to store more honey in deeper cells. However, this method is most effective when there is a strong honey flow to encourage rapid storage.
Understanding the Trade-offs
The Risk of Premature Spacing
The most common error is attempting to run 8 frames in a 10-frame box before the comb is drawn.
If you reduce the frame count too early, you risk creating a structural mess that is difficult to fix without destroying the comb. Patience in the first year is essential for long-term equipment health.
Efficiency vs. Uniformity
Running 10 frames ensures straight comb but creates shallower cells that are slightly more labor-intensive to uncap during harvest.
Running 8 frames (after year one) creates "fat" combs that are easier to uncap and harvest, but it requires careful timing regarding the honey flow to work correctly.
Making the Right Choice for Your Goal
To maximize the longevity of your equipment and the efficiency of your hive, apply these rules based on the age of your comb:
- If your primary focus is establishing new equipment: Use all 10 frames to guarantee straight, interchangeable combs that are easy to inspect.
- If your primary focus is maximizing harvest efficiency: Switch to 8 frames only after the comb is fully drawn and a strong nectar flow is present to encourage deep cell construction.
Build your foundation right in the first year, and your frames will serve you well for seasons to come.
Summary Table:
| Hive Stage | Frame Density (per 10-frame box) | Goal & Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| First Year (New Foundation) | 10 Frames | Forces straight, uniform comb construction; prevents cross-comb. |
| Subsequent Years (Drawn Comb) | 8 Frames | Encourages bees to build deeper cells; simplifies honey uncapping. |
| During Strong Honey Flow | 8 - 9 Frames | Maximizes honey storage capacity per frame. |
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