One of the decisions as a new beekeeper is to determine which hive system to use. The hives are generally called woodenware because they were originally constructed of wood. However today the hives may be constructed from plastic and/or closed cell foam. The hive systems we describe are generally used in the United States and as you look at hive systems used in other parts of the world, they are similar, but may go by different names.
Langstroth Hives are probably the most widely used hives. Most, if not all, commercial beekeepers use this system and the honey extractors are manufactured to handle frames built to Langstroth specifications. In recent years, the Langstroth supers have been reduced to handle 8 frames, down from the original 10, because of less weight to lift. Here is a short video explaining the Langstroth Hive System. (This is not a recommendation for or against this particular vendor.)
The Flow Hive is a hybrid Langstroth hive system. This hive was developed in Australia and uses an 8 frame super to house plastic frames that have cells similar in size to honey comb (5 cells to the inch) that can be mechanically modified to allow the honey to be harvested without using an extractor. Here is a short video explaining the Flow Hive System. (This is not a recommendation for or against this particular vendor.)
Top Bar Hives are probably the oldest hive system used by beekeepers that use “natural” beekeeping methods. There are no standard sizes and can be built inexpensively by the beekeepers with minimum tools. This hive system requires more interaction by the beekeeper. The extraction and processing of the honey is done by hand. Here is a short video explaining the Top Bar System. (This is not a recommendation for or against this particular vendor.)
Warre Hives use the same bar technology as a top bar hive, but with stackable boxes. Developed in France it is also known as the “Peoples Hive”. Here is a short video explaining the Warre Hive System. (This is not a recommendation for or against this particular vendor.)
AZ Slovenian Hives were developed in Slovenia. The technology has been changed in the United States to use Langstroth sized frames and standard honey extraction equipment. Designed to be housed in a structure to protect the colony from the weather, this system is becoming increasingly popular in the United States. Here are two short videos explaining the AZ Hive System. (This is not a recommendation for or against this particular vendor.)
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