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Are you interested in beekeeping but don't know where to start? Consider using Layens beehives.
Layens beehives are a classic horizontal hive design that provides ample space for your bees to thrive, making them ideal for colder climates and natural beekeeping practices. Their unique design allows for easy inspection and honey harvesting, ensuring a rewarding beekeeping experience.
Because Layens beehives expand horizontally, they do not require a super to be stacked on top. This saves you lifting heavy boxes full of honey during the honey harvest.
Our Layens 7-frame starter hives are built by hand by Amish craftsmen in rural Kansas.
Featuring:
✅ Includes seven pre-wired frames, ready to accept sheets of wax foundation.**
✅ Made of solid wood, 3/4" thick.
✅ Two entrances for optimal ventilation and entry.
✅ Heavy duty metal covered lid and corner protectors, for durability.
✅ Unfinished exterior. Finish or paint the exterior with your preferred natural product.
✅ Perfect for a starter hive or nucleus hive when making splits.
✅ Can be hung in a tree as a bait hive (aka swarm trap).
Explore our other natural beekeeping products for a complete setup.
**Note: We do not yet sell wax foundation for Layens frames. As an alternative, you can alter Langstroth foundation to fit Layens dimensions by simply cutting it down to size.
Layens 7-Frame Beehive | Durable Horizontal Hive for Natural Beekeeping
What is a Layens 7-Frame Beehive?
The Layens 7-Frame Beehive is a compact horizontal hive designed for natural beekeeping practices. Its size and structure make it ideal for use as a nucleus (nuc) colony box, swarm trap, or starter hive. The deep frames mimic the bees' natural habitat, promoting healthy colony development.
Can this hive be used as a nuc box?
Yes, the 7-frame capacity is perfect for housing a small nucleus colony. It provides ample space for brood and resources, allowing the colony to establish and grow before transferring to a larger hive if desired.
Is it suitable as a swarm trap?
Absolutely. The hive's dimensions and design are attractive to swarming bees seeking a new home. Placing it in a strategic location during swarm season can help you capture wild swarms effectively.
How does it function as a starter hive?
For new beekeepers or those starting a new colony, this hive offers a manageable size to monitor and manage bee activity. Its design facilitates easy inspections and maintenance, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
What materials are used in the construction?
Our Layens 7-Frame Beehive is crafted from high-quality, solid pine, providing a natural environment and longevity. The materials are selected to withstand various weather conditions while maintaining a conducive environment for the bees. To protect and preserve the exterior of your Layens 7-Frame Beehive, apply a natural finish such as linseed oil.
Does it come assembled?
Yes, the hive is fully assembled and ready for immediate use. All rames are assembled and pre-wired. All you need to do is add wax foundation. This allows you to focus on beekeeping activities without the need for additional setup.
Can I expand this hive as my colony grows?
While the 7-frame hive is designed for smaller colonies, it serves as an excellent starting point. As your colony expands, you can transfer the frames to a larger Layens hive.
Is it compatible with standard Layens frames?
Yes, it is designed to accommodate standard Layens frames (included), ensuring compatibility and ease of transition between different hive sizes within the Layens system.
What maintenance is required?
Regular inspections are recommended to monitor colony health and hive conditions. Due to its horizontal design, the hive allows for straightforward inspections without the need to lift heavy boxes, reducing strain and disturbance to the bees.
