Most beginners start with Langstroth hives, the standard removable-frame boxes, in 8- or 10-frame widths. A first hive needs a bottom board, brood boxes, honey supers, frames and foundation, an inner and outer cover, plus a veil or suit, gloves, a smoker and a hive tool. Many mentors suggest starting with two hives so you can compare them. Check local ordinances and state registration rules before your bees arrive.
Beekeeping equipment is simple, but parts must match. Buy all boxes and frames in the same size system.
The hive
| Part | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Bottom board | Floor and entrance |
| Brood boxes (deep or medium) | Where the queen lays eggs |
| Honey supers | Where bees store surplus honey |
| Frames and foundation | Where bees build comb |
| Queen excluder (optional) | Keeps the queen out of supers |
| Inner and outer cover | Roof and ventilation |
Langstroth hives are standard and easiest to buy parts for. Top-bar and other designs exist but have fewer interchangeable parts.
Protective gear
- A veil at minimum; a jacket or full suit for beginners.
- Gloves, at least at first.
- Light-colored clothing.
Tools
- Smoker: calms bees during inspections.
- Hive tool: pries apart boxes and frames.
- Bee brush and frame grip: helpful extras.
- Feeder: for new colonies and dearth periods.
Bees
You can start with a package (bees and a queen) or a nucleus colony (a small colony on frames). Nucs usually build up faster.
Before you start
- Check local zoning and HOA rules and your state’s apiary registration.
- Find a local beekeeping club or mentor.
- Plan for varroa mite monitoring and treatment.
Bees pair well with a food garden and orchard. For other animals, see coop sizing and fencing. Preserve your harvest with canning.
Browse small livestock and bees.
Common questions
Should a beginner start with one hive or two?
Many experienced beekeepers recommend two, so you can compare colonies and move resources between them if one struggles.
8-frame or 10-frame boxes?
10-frame is the most common. 8-frame boxes are lighter to lift when full of honey.
Do I need to register my hives?
Some states require apiary registration. Check with your state department of agriculture.
When should I order bees?
Packages and nucleus colonies are often ordered in winter for spring pickup and can sell out early.