Introduction
The prospect of keeping bees is appealing to many individuals in the UK, from those with large gardens to those with small urban spaces. One of the initial steps for aspiring beekeepers is acquiring a suitable hive, which can often be a significant expense. However, a variety of free, detailed plans are available online, enabling enthusiasts to construct their own beehives using commonly sourced materials. These plans cater to different styles, skill levels, and budgets, offering a practical pathway into beekeeping without the immediate cost of purchasing a pre-made hive. The available resources cover a range of hive types, including the popular Langstroth, Top-bar, and Warre designs, as well as more unconventional options. This article will explore the types of free plans available, the considerations for building a hive, and the steps involved in preparing a site and installing a colony.
Types of Free Beehive Plans Available
Free beehive plans are accessible through various online platforms, offering designs that range from beginner-friendly to more advanced projects. The choice of hive style is a critical first step, as each type has distinct characteristics suited to different management styles and environments.
Langstroth Hive
The Langstroth hive is one of the most common and popular designs among beekeepers. It features movable frames, which facilitate easy inspection and honey harvesting. Free plans for Langstroth hives are widely available, with variations to suit different needs and budgets.
- Standard Langstroth Hive: Some plans describe a hive that holds eight frames instead of the standard ten, resulting in a lighter body and more space between frames. This can be an easier build for beginners.
- 10-Frame Langstroth Hive: Other plans provide instructions for building a traditional 10-frame Langstroth hive. These plans often include a cut list, diagrams, and step-by-step directions for constructing brood boxes, super boxes, and frames. One such plan is noted to cost under £20 in materials, offering a significant saving compared to purchasing a pre-made hive.
- Long Langstroth Hive: A variation of the Langstroth design is the horizontal long Langstroth hive. This plan builds a hive that holds 31 standard deep frames. The walls are thick, providing extra insulation and durability, and the build is reported to cost under $50 in materials and take only a few hours to complete.
Top-Bar Hive
The Top-bar hive is often recommended for beginners or those seeking a more natural approach to beekeeping. Its design is simple, featuring horizontal bars that hold the comb in place. This allows for easier management with less disruption to the bees' natural behaviour. The plans are typically straightforward, breaking down each section so that even those new to both beekeeping and carpentry can likely follow them.
Warre Hive
The Warre hive, also known as the "People's Hive," is a vertical design known for its ability to house multiple colonies in a small space. It is often described as simple to tackle and easy to manage. Free plans for a Warre-style beehive are available, allowing for customization to any size. This style is particularly suitable for those with space constraints or an interest in keeping multiple colonies on a single site. However, it is worth noting that the compact design can make inspection and harvesting more challenging compared to other hive types.
Other and Unconventional Designs
Beyond the standard hive types, free plans also exist for more unique and cost-effective designs:
- Plywood Swarm Box: This plan is designed for catching swarms, which is a way to acquire bees for free. The plan includes instructions for building the box and attracting swarms, which is beneficial for those who wish to start beekeeping without the initial cost of purchasing a bee colony.
- The $hive (Pronounced 'Shive'): This is a plywood-built beehive designed to be a low-cost "money hive." The plans include a brood box and four supers. Plywood is noted to be less expensive than other materials, making this an affordable option for those aiming to produce honey.
- Winter-Friendly National Hive: This design is noted for its rustic appearance and its key feature: the ability to be insulated inside and out for winter, making it suitable for the UK climate.
- Horizontal Beehive: An easy-to-follow plan for a horizontal hive is available, which is designed to protect bees from summer heat and winter cold. The required supplies include untreated boards, untreated plywood sheathing, deck screws, wood glue, staples, and aluminum flashing.
- Barrel Hive: A plan involves converting a 55-gallon plastic barrel into a beehive. The necessary materials include nominal lumber, a piece of tin, wood screws, bungee cord or tie wire, and molding or natural fiber string with beeswax.
- Computer Case Bee Hive: One source mentions an idea for transforming an old computer case into a beehive, though specific plans are not detailed in the provided data.
- Mason Bee Beehive: Plans for a Mason bee beehive are also referenced, though details are limited in the source material.
Key Considerations When Building a Beehive
Building a beehive involves more than just following plans; several factors must be considered to ensure the well-being of the bees and the longevity of the hive.
Hive Selection
The choice of hive depends on the beekeeper's experience, space, and preferences. For instance, a Top-bar hive is often recommended for beginners due to its simplicity, while a Langstroth hive is favoured for its ease of inspection and harvesting. The Warre hive is ideal for those with limited space. It is important to consider local regulations and the size of the apiary when making this decision.
Ventilation and Insulation
Proper ventilation is a crucial factor that cannot be overlooked when building a hive. Adequate airflow helps regulate temperature and humidity, which is essential for the colony's health. Conversely, insulation is important for protecting the hive from extreme temperatures, particularly during the winter. The Winter-Friendly National Hive plan specifically addresses this by allowing for internal and external insulation.
Materials and Durability
The choice of materials impacts both the cost and the durability of the hive. Plywood is a cost-effective option, as seen in the "$hive" and swarm box plans, but it may require treatment to withstand the elements. Untreated lumber is often recommended to avoid harming the bees. The Long Langstroth Hive plan notes that thick walls provide extra insulation and durability. It is essential to ensure that the hive is clean and free of any lingering odours or residues from construction materials before introducing bees.
Preparing the Site and Installing the Colony
Once the hive is built, selecting and preparing a suitable site is the next critical step.
Site Preparation
The hive should be positioned in a spot with adequate sunlight but not direct exposure to harsh weather conditions. The ground should be cleared of debris and levelled to provide a stable base. It is also recommended to place a shallow pan or tray under the hive to collect excess water or debris.
Installing Bees
The method of installation depends on whether you are starting with a new nucleus (nuc) or an existing colony.
- New Nuc: A nuc typically consists of 3-5 frames with bees and a queen. For installation, the cappings on the frames should be carefully removed to allow for easy access. The frames are then gently placed into the hive, usually starting from one corner and working around. After about 30 minutes, the entrance should be sealed with a reducer plug to help control the population's growth rate.
- Existing Colony: When introducing an existing colony, start by opening one end of the hive and allowing the bees to exit before transferring them to their new home. After transferring the bees, secure any remaining frames with clips or lugs provided on the hive equipment.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Regular maintenance is essential for a healthy and productive bee hive. A routine should be developed that includes cleaning and inspecting the hive.
Regular Inspections and Monitoring
Regular inspections are crucial for identifying potential issues before they become major problems. During these checks, beekeepers should look for signs of disease, such as deformed wings, unusual colouration, or unusual odours. It is also important to check for pests like mites, small hive beetles, and mice. The Top-bar hive design is noted for disturbing the hive less during inspection, which can be beneficial for the bees.
Conclusion
Building a beehive from free plans is a viable and cost-effective way for UK consumers to begin their beekeeping journey. A wide array of plans is available online, covering popular designs like the Langstroth, Top-bar, and Warre hives, as well as more creative and budget-friendly options. Success in beekeeping requires careful consideration of the hive type, attention to factors like ventilation and insulation, and diligent site preparation and maintenance. By utilising the free resources available, aspiring beekeepers can construct a suitable home for their bees and take the first step towards the rewarding experience of apiculture.