Layens Horizontal Hive

    Numerous versions of the horizontal, deep frame hive exist, based on the principles of the famous French 19th century beekeeper Georges de Layens.

     This type of horizontal hive is ideally suited to a more hands-off approach to beekeeping. The bees can be sustainably managed with minimal intervention to the brood nest and at the same time provide a modest crop of honey for personal use, conditions depending.

     This latest version of the Layens Hive is constructed primarily from a mix of British and Western Red cedar. It has high insulation properties, aided by an internal lining of 15mm Wool Wood , solid frame runners and a Wool Wood crown board, helping the bees to maintain a stable, all year-round, brood nest temperature.

     The hive includes 13 deep frames with a  wax covered starter strip. The bees are left to build their own comb as they see fit. 

    The hive has an internal volume of 70L.  A ‘follower’ board is incorporated with the frames to adjust the volume of the cavity as the colony develops.

     There is a hinged lid and separate base that the hive sits on a removable floor providing the option to monitor hive debris.