hi, this may be a stupid question but I wondered if rather than starting from scratch I convert my existing smith hives to top bar. If I use a super to make the quilt layer, disassemble the frames just to leave a top bar in the brood boxes and knock up a new floor and a roof? maybe cut some observation windows in the sides with shutters? has anyone done this? do you think the bees would be happy?
thanks
catherine x
Technically possible I guess, but it sounds like your would ends up with a bastardised combination with the downsides of both systems and some new problems all of it's own. Personally I'd consider letting your current colony run it's course and try catching a swarm to put into a new purpose built top bar hive.
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Today's lesson is that you can't wear a jetpack AND a cape. I should have read this tiny ad:
montana community seeking 20 people who are gardeners or want to be gardeners