Wondering when is right time to add a super to your bees? I explain how to know.. and one way to add a super with checkboarding.
My Video Course is at http://www.honeytopbees.com
If checkerboarding is not just honey frames and you are expanding your brood nest, here is some additional information:
3 Common methods:
1. Add Drawn Comb ( or empty frames if that’s all you have)
Insert one or two empty frames in the middle or edges of the brood nest.
Best done in warm weather when bees can keep brood warm.
Use drawn comb if possible-it’s easier for the queen to lay in than foundation.
Don’t break up the brood cluster too aggressively in early spring, or you’ll chill the brood.
2. Add a Second Brood Box
Place a second deep box on top of the existing one.
Move one or two brood frames (with bees) into the center of the new box to encourage upward movement.
Fill the rest with drawn comb or foundation.
Useful when the first brood box is 80–90% full of bees, brood, and food.
3. Checkerboarding
Alternating brood frames with drawn comb or foundation above the brood nest.
Not inserted into the core of the brood nest, but above it.
Helps manage congestion without disrupting the cluster.
Used more for swarm prevention than pure brood expansion.
Rays Complete Beginners Bee Keeping Course: https://www.honeytopbees.com/rays-beginner-video-course/
Equipment:
DJI 3
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