View Full Version : How do you weigh hives?
I have heard of the tilt method but am not sure how this works? Are there other techniques? Also, what should a healthy double deep weigh in at?
Thanx in adv.
The tilt method just simply is tilting the hive from the rear and getting idea on how heavy it is. We all use that method for winter stores estimating while there is still time to supplement. If you have a number of hives you'll get to your conclusions quick. It's more about is the hive light than is it heavy. The weight of a healthy double deep is dependant on many things. The season (amount of honey flow, brood, bee population), type of bees (closed brood nest or open)and even what type of equipment you use (migratory cover vs telescoping etc). We have put a hive on a scale (the old counter weight scales work well) for fun some years to record buildup. Tilt your hives, you'll get a feel for it.
Robert Hawkins
07-01-2005, 09:09 PM
175 pounds. That includes bb, inner cover and tel. top.
Hawk
Thanks Hawk, my back aches just thinking about it!
Ironically that is exactly what I weigh!
Robert Hawkins
07-02-2005, 10:15 AM
Okay Joel, Just fling another possum in the stew pot. We'll have you up to bking weight in no time.
I got two words for ya man. Meedi ums.
Hawk
Curry
07-03-2005, 05:17 PM
Bryn,
If you insulate you hives, they will require less honey in the winter. I've had hives survive winter on as little as 3 deep frames of honey... but I fed in the spring, insulated, and I'm in the south.
If you don't have a fall flow, it's good to simulate one by feeding 1 to 1, and building up new bees for the winter.