Correct positioning of the hive
The correct positioning of the hive is important for the activity and well-being of the bees and for the quality and efficiency of the beekeeper's work.
For the activity and well-being of bees, the hive must be positioned on an even and stable surface so as to avoid the risk of tipping, and the opening of the hives should face south, if possible.
For the safety of the beekeeper, the hives should be placed as high as it is comfortable for the beekeeper: hive management should be possible without bending over the hives and the lifting of the hives should be possible with the smallest possible movement.
On average, if the hive is placed 40-50 cm high, both moisture originating from the ground and the entering of small reptiles, beetles, or mice can be prevented.
Iron, wood or concrete posts can be used for supports. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages:
ADVANTAGES
Iron: practical (single structure), light, cheap
Wood: sustainable, non-slip, lightweight
Cement: economical (vineyard poles), non-slip
DISADVANTAGES
Iron: possible slipping of hives, vibration, painting, thermal conductivity
Wood: cost, maintenance (deterioration)
Cement: heavy
The suitability of the materials used should be assessed on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration also the total weight of the final structure.
Using a spirit level to adjust the base is important to prevent the hives from tipping over, especially when there are many honeycombs that can cause unbalance. If the hive is slightly tilted forwards, the condensation water can evaporate more easily. Position the hives so that the flight direction of the bees does not interfere with the passage of agricultural vehicles or people. The base of the supports must rest on stable, solid ground and/or should be sufficiently wide.
Warnings: May depend on the regulations in force in the given country.
Please check out the B-THENET Platform for the Best Beekeeping Practices tailored to each country in the national language, co-developed with practicing beekeepers in the National B-THENET Centres of those countries (Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Denmark, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden).
BEST PRACTICES AND INNOVATIONS FOR A SUSTAINABLE BEEKEEPING
Completed | 2022-2026
- Main funding source
- Horizon Europe (EU Research and Innovation Programme)
- Geographical location
- Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Denmark, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden